The Philippine National Police urged schools on Sunday to coordinate with law enforcement agencies before holding major off-campus activities.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Nartatez issued the call after Ateneo Blue Eagles athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili drowned during a team-building and training activity at a resort in Dipaculao, Aurora.
Nartatez said schools should inform local police stations ahead of major activities so authorities could conduct security assessments and help prepare emergency response plans.
He said early coordination would also allow police to assist in traffic management and link organizers with rescue and medical response teams when needed.
The PNP chief said regional and local police units had been directed to maintain regular coordination with the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education.
Nartatez said the police would also work with local governments to ensure that safety measures are in place, especially during major activities involving learners.
The reminder came as separate shooting and stabbing incidents involving minors were reported in different parts of the country within days of each other.
The PNP said it would increase police visibility around schools as part of efforts to build safer learning environments, with Nartatez stressing that prevention depends on strong partnerships and advance planning.
