CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — While police visibility in schools can help deter crime, parents remain the first line of defense in keeping children safe and instilling positive values, a city councilor said following the fatal school shooting involving two minors in Tacloban City.
Speaking after the City Council's regular session Monday, June 22, Councilor Marlo Tabac said the tragedy has prompted local officials and families to revisit campus safety measures in Cagayan de Oro.
Tabac said police officers have been deployed to schools since the opening of classes through coordination among the city government, the Department of Education (DepEd)-10, and the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO).
"Since the opening of classes, police personnel have been stationed in schools, and barangay tanods are also helping maintain peace and order around campuses," he said.
The councilor said he plans to recommend additional security measures during the upcoming Peace and Order Council meeting.
Still, Tabac emphasized that protecting children cannot rest on law enforcement alone.
"Parents play a vital role in safeguarding their children's welfare and rights. This responsibility cannot be carried by the police alone. It requires the cooperation of families, schools, communities, and other stakeholders," he said.
You may also like: On PBBM’s VP Trial View: Labor group pushes back
For many parents, the Tacloban incident serves as a reminder to stay involved in their children's lives.
Shena Maglangit, 35, of Barangay Gusa, said she constantly reminds her Grade 3 child to behave responsibly and respect others.
"I always remind my child not to hurt anyone and to behave well in school because these are difficult times. Guidance from parents is very important," she said.
Elisha Nagtalon of Opol, who has two children in elementary school, admitted that the shooting has heightened her fears.
"As a parent, it is really frightening. We can only continue praying for our children's safety while doing our part to guide them every day," she said.
