PNP to assist in opening of classes on August 24 — Gamboa

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to provide assistance during the opening of classes on August 24, its chief said on Monday.

Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa said they are prepared to provide its traditional support to the Department of Education through the Brigada Eskwela and Pulis Ko, Titser Ko programs.

"We will undertake the necessary activities and operations including implementation of security plan, attending coordination meetings with DepEd offices, LGUs, PTA, volunteer groups, and stakeholders to carry out public safety services, conduct assessment on the security and safety operations for DepEd personnel who will deliver printed and digital modules to hard-to-reach areas," Gamboa said at a virtual press briefing.

The PNP chief said that it has been the practice of the police to provide security to places of convergence, transportation hubs, and learning institutions in order to protect the students, teachers, and parents from criminal elements who may take advantage of the situation.

President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly said that he would not allow face-to-face classes until a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available.

Duterte, however, tasked the DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to submit position papers on the possibility of face-to-face classes in areas considered as low risk in the spread of COVID-19. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News