PRO-Davao Boosts Security for New School Year

AS THE Department of Education (DepEd) prepares to start the 2025–2026 academic year on June 16, the Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) is stepping up security measures across the region to ensure the safety of students, parents, and school personnel.

Under the initiative called “Oplan Balik-Eskwela,” PRO-Davao Regional Director Police Brigadier General Leon Victor Z. Rosete announced the deployment of 1,572 police officers to key locations such as schools, transport terminals, airports, seaports, and shopping centers. This move aims to maintain peace and order during the school reopening period.

To provide immediate assistance and address concerns, Police Assistance Desks (PADs) will be set up in strategic areas. Rosete stressed the importance of community cooperation, urging the public to report any suspicious activities to nearby police stations or patrolling officers. He echoed Philippine National Police Chief General Nicolas D. Torre III’s call: “Tulungan ninyo kaming, tulungan kayo,” highlighting the shared responsibility of ensuring a safe educational environment.

This school year marks the return to the traditional June-to-March academic calendar as outlined in DepEd Order No. 012, Series of 2025. Approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in May 2024, this change responds to public concerns about extreme heat during the previous April-to-May schedules. The academic year will last 197 class days, ending on March 31, 2026.

Enrollment and the nationwide “Brigada Eskwela” maintenance activities are set for June 9 to 13, giving schools ample time to prepare before classes begin.

As the Davao Region prepares for the new school year, the combined efforts of law enforcement and the community aim to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all. DEF