THE TEACHERS’ Dignity Coalition called on the Department of Education and local government units to impose strict security in schools when classes open on August 22 and during the full face-to-face classes in November.

“We must ensure the safety of our children and school personnel. And if the school or the DepEd cannot afford the hiring of security guards for each school, our LGUs can help or even deploy barangay watchmen in the school’s vicinity,” Benjo Basas, the group’s national chairperson, said.

The group issued the statement following a report that some teachers in Camarines Sur were robbed and sexually harassed by armed burglars who entered the school premises.

“This violence perpetrated against our hapless teachers is deplorable and we condemn it in the strongest terms. We call on our law enforcement authorities for a speedy investigation to bring the culprits to justice,” Basas added.

TDC coordinated with the field officials but could not divulge details because of the sensitivity of the matter.

“Apart from the necessary sacrifices, there are also dangers that our teachers face. Our teachers should be on vacation right now, but perhaps with the amount of work that still needs to be done, they prefer to work in schools or are forced to report physically,” Basas said.