THE PHILIPPINE National Police has adopted and circulated the operational guidelines and procedures to be undertaken to ensure peace and order and public safety when classes open next week.

Under the guidelines, all unit commanders are directed to coordinate and participate in meetings with school authorities as well as Parents and Teachers Associations to carry out public safety services such as illegal drugs prevention, education and other anti-criminality programs.

PNP Chief General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said the Operational Guidelines for LIGTAS BALIK-ESKWELA SY 2022-2023 shall serve as main reference for all police officers as the PNP intensifies law enforcement activities in learning institutions, transportation hubs and places of convergence.

“Influx of individuals during in-person classes is also expected, thus, PNP Covid19 patrollers will also be deployed to ensure that the Minimum Public Health Standards such as observing physical distance, proper and frequent handwashing, and wearing face masks shall remain implemented, especially in places or regions with high-risk classifications,” Azurin said.

Police stations were directed to conduct mobile and foot patrols along major routes and highways leading to learning institutions and within the immediate vicinity of school premises to monitor and evaluate the daily activities and prevent outsiders from mingling with students.

Concerned police stations will also coordinate with concerned LGUs on the implementation of zoning ordinances that prohibit the operation of video game shops, billiards establishments and other distractive games and recreations within the immediate vicinity of schools.

Police Assistance Desks near the gates of school campuses will also be established.

“Makakaasa rin ang ating mga kababayan na sa pamamagitan ng programang “MKK=K” (Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayaan tungo sa Kaunlaran) sa tulong ng KASIMBAYANAN, na aking inilunsad, patuloy ang pagseserbisyo ng Pambansang Pulisya Ng Pilipinas hindi lamang bilang mga tagabantay at tagapanatili ng kapayapaan at kaayusan sa komunidad kundi bilang isang organisasyon na tumutulong sa ating mga kababayan at vulnerable sectors ng ating komunidad kasama na ang mga minamahal nating kabataan, sa anumang oras at panahon,” Azurin said.