By Glen Jacob Jose

The Philippine National Police (PNP) activates the Operational Guidelines for Ligtas Balik-Eskwela School Year (SY) 2022-2023, where all PNP Units would ensure public safety during the opening of classes nationwide.

The Department of Education (DepEd) issues the school calendar and activities for the SY 2022-2023, starting on August 22, 2022, and ending on July 7, 2023.

PNP Chief General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said the guidelines would be the reference to secure learning institutions, transportation hubs, and places of convergence.

"Influx of individuals during in-person classes is also expected, thus, PNP COVID-19 patrollers will also be deployed to ensure that the Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS) such as observing physical distance, proper and frequent handwashing, and wearing face masks shall remain implemented, especially in places or regions with high-risk classifications," Azurin said in a statement.

Under the said guidelines, all unit commanders are directed to coordinate and participate in meetings with school authorities and the Parents and Teachers Association to carry out public safety services, such as illegal drug prevention, education, and other necessary anti-criminality programs.

Police stations are directed to conduct mobile and foot patrols along major routes and highways leading to schools. Operatives are also directed to prohibit the operation of video game shops, billiards establishments, and other distractive games and recreations within the immediate vicinity of schools, particularly in the U-Belt area of Manila.

Meanwhile, DepEd and PNP must establish Police Assistance Desks (PADs) near the entrance gate of school campuses nationwide.

Azurin said the PNP would also deploy police to participate in the Brigada Eskwela Project of the DepEd and Simulation Exercises (SIMEX) in coordination with school authorities on possible threats in schools like bomb threats, fire incidents, earthquakes, and other related scenarios.

Most private schools are expected to continue the blended learning setup.

More than 20.6 million learners have been enrolled just a week before the official reopening of classes.