Education Secretary Sonny Angara has recognized Lakan Dula High School in Tondo, Manila, as a model for campus safety after inspecting its security measures and learner protection programs, highlighting how collaboration among schools, parents, local government units, and community partners can help maintain a zero-incident record.
The October 28 inspection was part of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) continuing school safety audits aimed at strengthening security and protecting learners nationwide. Lakan Dula High School is among the model schools implementing the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) under DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026.
Angara credited the school’s safety efforts to the strong partnership among the local government unit, Philippine National Police (PNP), alumni association, parents, and other community partners.
He noted that these groups provided assistance, including support for the school’s security equipment and metal detectors.
Angara stressed that while security equipment such as body scanners, metal detectors, and CCTV cameras are important, a safe learning environment ultimately depends on people who remain alert and responsive to learners’ needs. These include observant teachers, involved parents, and security personnel who personally know the students.
He also praised the school for establishing open communication channels that encourage learners to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
During his visit, Angara inspected the campus, one of Manila’s oldest public schools, which serves 4,750 learners. He began by signing the school’s Commitment Wall before observing its entry-point security procedures and visitor verification protocols.
He also visited the campus Care Center to assess its psychosocial support services and met learner responders at the Batang Emergency Response Team station. The inspection included a review of the school’s security monitoring center.
Angara further joined parents, guardians, and barangay partners in a Kaagapay Session, which focused on learner discipline, anti-bullying initiatives, and digital safety.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening parental involvement through the Kaagapay Program, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for different sectors to take an active role in ensuring school security, promoting mental health, and guiding children toward responsible internet use.
To expand similar safety initiatives nationwide, DepEd is seeking PHP8.18 billion in additional funding from Congress under its proposed 2027 budget. The funds will support the installation and improvement of essential school safety features, including security guards, metal detectors, CCTV networks, and perimeter fencing.
Lakan Dula High School’s existing safety initiatives also include regular emergency preparedness drills, joint training with local responders, weather advisory systems, structured arrival and dismissal procedures, and close coordination with local law enforcement.
