The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday said it will review policies concerning security measures in public schools while the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public they will heighten police visibility near schools, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa.

This follows the tragic shooting incident that occurred in San Jose National High School, Tacloban City resulting in the deaths of three individuals.

In an ambush interview at Camp Crame, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said security policies at schools, such as inspections and body searching, must be examined.

Moreover, in response to the incident, PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured that he will boost police deployment by schools.

“Tutulong tayo in the security of the schools, in coordination with the schools,” he told reporters.

While officers are barred from entry into “zones of peace,” Nartatez pointed out that police may take part in activities like the flag-raising ceremony. Their presence should serve as a deterrent for possible crimes within school premises.

However, Remulla admitted that violence in schools stems from other issues, such as bullying, which needs to be addressed.

“We have to review our policies. Kung may bullying, dapat ma-address ‘yung other root causes of the problem,” the DILG secretary said.

The police have looked into bullying as a motive for the shooting incident. Reports indicate that the two are also avid players of a violent video game called “GoreBox.”