Tacloban shooting prompts Iloilo City school security checks

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Following a coordination meeting with the Department of Education, high-ranking personnel of the Iloilo City Police Office personally visited several schools in the metropolis.

Led by ICPO Director Col. Wilbert Parilla, the team conducted an on-the-spot inspection of police deployments and security measures in selected schools on June 25.

The inspection followed the June 22 shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte, where three people were killed and several others were injured, prompting calls for heightened security in schools.

Parilla was accompanied by Maj. Shella Mae Sangrines, chief of the City Community Affairs and Development Unit and Public Information Office, when they visited La Paz National High School and met with school officials.

Parilla later proceeded to Iloilo National High School to inspect personnel deployed at Police Assistance Desks and confer with security guards and personnel from the Iloilo City Public Order and Safety Management Office.

During the inspection, Parilla emphasized the importance of maintaining heightened security measures in schools and ensuring police visibility as a preventive measure to safeguard students, teachers, and school staff.

“Our security measures are in place, and we need your cooperation. The safety and security of our learners remain a top priority,” he told school personnel.

Parilla said the ICPO aims to provide a secure environment conducive to learning through regular inspections, police visibility, and close coordination with school authorities and security personnel.

Late Thursday afternoon, Parilla accompanied Police Regional Office 6 acting director Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño in visiting schools in the Arevalo district.

“So far, we haven’t seen any lapses. The security guards have already metal detectors with them,” Parilla said.

Parilla said the ICPO has been actively strengthening its school security initiatives even before the opening of classes and the start of Brigada Eskwela 2026.

These efforts are part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing commitment to maintaining peace and order, protecting educational institutions, and fostering stronger partnerships with the community.