National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin ordered all five district commands in Metro Manila to enhance patrol operations for the safety of children going to and from schools as the new school year approaches.
The Department of Education (DepEd) announced that classes for the school year 2025-2026 will begin on June 16.
To ensure student safety and security, the NCRPO has deployed 5,344 police personnel throughout Metro Manila in preparation for the school opening. This deployment includes coverage for 1,206 public and private schools, securing a comprehensive, coordinated, and visible police presence.
Among the personnel, 1,429 have been assigned to operate Police Assistance Desks (PADs) strategically located near campuses. These efforts are supported by tactical units, including the Tactical Motorcycle Riding Unit, covert teams, explosive ordnance teams, and K9 units, all aimed at deterring criminal activities and responding swiftly to emergencies.
In addition, 1,135 mobile patrol units and 1,731 foot patrol officers have been stationed across the five police districts and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), ensuring 24/7 coverage around schools and in high-traffic, risk-prone areas.
The Southern Police District reported the largest deployment with 1,612 personnel, followed by the Northern Police District with 1,240, and the Manila Police District with 955.
These deployments are further supported by close coordination with local school officials through pre-opening safety meetings and area assessments.
Beyond the ‘Balik Eskwela’ initiative, the NCRPO is committed to enhancing its Intensified Recalibrated Police Visibility Program, ensuring a continuous and strategic police presence in public spaces.
Aberin emphasized the need for a rapid police response, aligning with the directive from Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III, which calls for a strict five-minute response time for all emergencies.
“In adherence to the instruction of the Chief PNP to deliver swift and responsive public service, we want to reassure students, their parents, and educators that the NCRPO will be there to ensure safety and security, anchored on our recalibrated police visibility and our institutionalized quick response to emergencies,” the NCRPO chief said.
