By Chris V. Panganiban
Regional Editor for Caraga
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The Agusan del Sur National High School (ASNHS) here has intensified its campus security measures, including stricter gate inspections and closer coordination with authorities, amid growing concerns over student safety following recent incidents of violence in schools.
In a public advisory, ASNHS assured parents and the community that it is taking proactive steps to maintain a safe, peaceful, and conducive learning environment for learners and school personnel.
The advisory, written in Bisaya, was prepared to ensure that parents and community members who are not fluent in English could easily understand the school’s safety protocols, reminders, and calls for cooperation.
The move comes after renewed concerns over school security following the recentshooting incident at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, where students were among those killed and injured, prompting discussions on the need for stronger preventive measures and safety systems inside campuses.
On Thursday, school personnel at ASNHS conducted bag inspections at the school entrance as part of its strengthened security measures.
The school said it continues to monitor the situation and maintain close coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), School Parent-Teacher Association (SPTA), and other concerned authorities to ensure that security concerns and possible threats are addressed promptly.
ASNHS has established its Internal and External Safety and Security Task Force and strengthened its security protocols, including increased police visibility, tighter gate security, enhanced campus monitoring, learner safety and support screening, and improved procedures for reporting, verifying, and responding to security concerns.
School officials urged parents, learners, and community members to remain calm and responsible in sharing information, reminding everyone to avoid spreading unverified reports that may cause unnecessary fear and confusion.
The school also encouraged stakeholders to immediately report any credible security-related information to the school administration or proper authorities for assessment and appropriate action.
ASNHS emphasized that the safety and welfare of its learners and personnel remain its highest priority, stressing that maintaining a secure learning environment requires the cooperation of the entire school community.
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