THE DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all local government units (LGUs) to establish Safer School Zones to protect learners from crime, violence, traffic hazards, and other threats within and around school areas.

“Schools must remain places of learning, not places of fear. Through Safer School Zones, local governments, barangays, schools, law enforcement agencies, parents, and communities will work together to better protect every learner,” the DILG said.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 2026-037, the DILG institutionalized the Safer School Zones program as part of the government’s Safer Cities and Safer Communities Initiative.

Governors, city and municipal mayors, punong barangays, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other stakeholders have been directed to strengthen safety and security measures around both public and private schools.

The DILG tasked LGUs to identify and address safety hazards and security risks in school zones, including unsafe roads and pedestrian facilities, speeding vehicles, fire and disaster risks, and other potential threats to learners.

The agency also ordered the mobilization of 277,744 barangay tanods as force multipliers who will help maintain a visible security presence, conduct roving patrols, assist in traffic management, provide immediate assistance, and promptly report or refer incidents to the appropriate authorities.