A SENATOR has called for tighter security measures in and around schools and renewed his push for expanded youth intervention programs following the fatal stabbing of a Grade 8 student from Las Piñas National High School.

Senator Camille Villar strongly condemned the attack, saying no student should have to fear for their safety while traveling to or from school.

She urged the Department of Education (DepEd), school administrators, law enforcement agencies, barangay officials, and parents to strengthen coordination and implement more proactive measures to ensure the safety of students within and around school premises.

Villar also expressed concern that the suspects involved in the incident are minors, with reports indicating that most of them are out-of-school youth.

She said the case underscores the urgent need to provide young people with better access to education, guidance, and support before they become involved in violence.

Villar stressed that instead of being drawn into criminal activities, young people should be in school or be given opportunities to return to their education and build a better future.

She said the incident should serve as a wake-up call for both the government and local communities to expand education, youth intervention, and mental health programs that address the root causes placing vulnerable children at risk.

According to Villar, strengthening these programs would provide young people with the guidance, support, and opportunities they need to avoid violence and pursue more positive paths in life.

The senator also emphasized that ensuring the safety of every student is a shared responsibility of the government, schools, families, and communities. She said schools must remain places of learning, character formation, and hope—not violence and fear.