Safety model: Angara inspects zero-incident school in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Sonny Angara got firsthand insight into how a large urban campus can maintain a zero-incident safety record on Wednesday as he inspected the Lakan Dula High School in Tondo, Manila.

The inspection is part of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) ongoing school audits to enhance safety measures across all schools nationwide.

According to a DepEd statement, Lakan Dula High School serves as a model school for the implementation of the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) under DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026.

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Angara emphasized that the Tondo school is a prime example of a successful collaboration among the local government unit (LGU), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the alumni association, and parents assisting the school.

“We thank the PNP, LGU, the alumni association, and all the partners who helped Lakan Dula High School,” Angara said in Filipino.

According to him, while security hardware — such as body scanners, metal detectors, and CCTV cameras — is vital, the school’s true safety comes from its people, including observant teachers, active parents, and security guards and watchmen who personally know the learners.

Angara also lauded the high school for creating open communication channels where students feel safe and empowered to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

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During his walkthrough of the campus, one of the oldest public schools in Manila, which serves 4,750 students, Angara reviewed its multi-layered safety measures.

He began by signing the school’s Commitment Wall before observing entry-point security procedures and visitor verification protocols.

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Angara also evaluated psychosocial support services at the campus Care Center and met student responders at the Batang Emergency Response Team station.

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He also reviewed the school’s security monitoring center and joined parents, guardians, and barangay partners for a Kaagapay Session focusing on learner discipline, anti-bullying measures, and digital safety.

“We welcome the parents’ help. That’s the goal of the Kaagapay Program, which we want to strengthen nationwide. It’s also in line with the call of President Bongbong Marcos on all sectors to be active in ensuring the security of the school and the children’s mental health and correct use of the internet,” Angara said.

Meanwhile, DepEd is requesting 8.18 billion in additional funds from Congress under its 2027 proposed budget to equip more schools with essential safety features similar to those at Lakan Dula High School, such as security guards, metal detectors, CCTV networks, and perimeter fencing.

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Lakan Dula High School’s safety initiatives include regular emergency preparedness drills, joint safety training with local responders, weather advisory systems, structured arrival and dismissal procedures, and close coordination with local law enforcement. /atm