Davao — The city is reinforcing its commitment to the safety of its youth and academic communities by hosting a landmark multi-sectoral security forum. On June 19, 2026, the Public Security and Safety Office (PSSO) brought together representatives from approximately 85 educational institutions, including key officials from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The gathering served as a proactive platform to address emerging security concerns, ensuring that school administrators and teachers are well-equipped to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining a secure environment for students.
Navigating Critical Emergency Protocols
A primary focus of the forum was the implementation of standardized, effective responses to bomb threats—a persistent concern for school faculty. The PSSO emphasized that schools must move beyond reactive measures, providing lecturers and administrators with specific protocols that avoid unnecessary and potentially dangerous mass evacuations when not required. By educating teachers on how to address these threats calmly and systematically, the city aims to mitigate panic and ensure that security decisions are grounded in established, professional guidelines. This shift in approach is designed to keep students safe while maintaining the continuity of the learning environment during localized threats.
Collaboration for Digital and Youth Security
Recognizing that security threats today often transcend physical walls, the forum also integrated national agencies to tackle digital vulnerabilities. Experts from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 11 (RACU 11) shared vital insights on tracing callers behind digital threats, providing educators with the necessary direction to effectively coordinate with law enforcement. Furthermore, the forum included a robust discussion involving local police station commanders on broader security issues affecting the youth. By fostering this direct line of communication between schools, national agencies, and local police, Davao City is creating a unified front to identify, address, and deter threats targeting its educational community.
