SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has expressed alarm over the reported shortage of security guards in public schools, saying the deployment of only about 200 security personnel to some 48,000 public schools nationwide is unacceptable.

Go said the figures highlight a serious gap in school security that must be addressed through adequate funding, stronger inter-agency coordination, and practical safety measures.

“Two hundred security guards for 48,000 public schools is simply unacceptable. It’s basic arithmetic. How can we ensure the safety of our students, teachers, and school personnel with such a huge shortage?” Go said.

His statement came after the Department of Education (DepEd) announced that it would seek additional funding from the Department of Budget and Management to hire more security guards for public schools.

DepEd said the shortage resulted from a previous rationalization program that abolished most security guard positions, leaving only about 200 personnel assigned nationwide.

The department added that many schools require more than one security guard, depending on campus size, student population, location, and prevailing security risks.

Go stressed that school security should be treated as a basic necessity, noting that public schools serve millions of learners every day.

“Protecting our learners should be a priority. School safety cannot be treated as an afterthought. We must study the necessary funding, manpower, and security measures to ensure that children are safe while in school,” he said.

The senator also underscored the need to protect teachers and non-teaching personnel, noting that they are often among the first responders during campus emergencies.