Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara said schools must pay closer attention to student behavior following a series of violent incidents, stressing that the issue goes beyond law enforcement and requires stronger guidance and supervision of young people.

Angara said students are increasingly exposed to violent content online and, in some cases, lack parental guidance, contributing to troubling behavior.

“Hindi lang siya peace and order problem. Kailangan i-manage din yung mga bata kasi parang exposed sila to a lot of violence online tapos marami wala ring magulang,” Angara said.

He also pointed to possible lapses in school security, noting that suspects in a recent incident may have climbed over a perimeter fence.

The DepEd Secretary said physical infrastructure should be improved to make campuses more secure, especially in densely populated areas.

He also reiterated that no faculty or administration member will be charged over the incident, rather the owners of the used firearm will be held accountable.

“Sinabi naman na ng PNP ito, papanagutin kung kanino nanggaling yung baril. Hindi naman normal na may baril ang mga bata,” Angara said.

Citing local officials, Angara added that some incidents may be linked to gang activity, which reportedly increased after the COVID-19 pandemic due to limited outlets for youth. He underscored the importance of police visibility in deterring such activities.

Angara visited San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, where a recent violent incident occurred, to meet with local government officials, police, and Department of Education field personnel.

He called on authorities to ensure safety in schools and public spaces to prevent copycat incidents.

He also met with teachers and school staff to check on their condition and assured them of immediate psychosocial support.

DepEd said it is deploying guidance counselors to help students cope with the impact of the incident.

Angara further expressed gratitude to local officials, police, and education personnel for their swift response.