Isko forms task force vs school violence

MANILA, Philippines —  Amid armed violence in schools involving minor students, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has signed an executive order creating the Safer Schools Initiative.

Moreno launched the violence-prevention program during his State of the City Address marking the city’s 455th founding anniversary at the Quirino Grandstand on Wednesday.

Under Executive Order 29, a safety task force will be created as a preemptive measure to eliminate illegal firearms and armed threats, respond to signs of violence and prepare for emergency response.

“The task force shall serve as the city’s coordinating body for violence prevention, threat assessment, school safety and emergency preparedness,” Moreno said.

“Our policy is simple: remove illegal guns. Act on every warning sign. Prepare every school. Manila will not wait for a tragedy before taking action,” he added.

Moreno directed the Manila Police District and the Schools Division Office to hold a joint citywide school audit within 90 days, form threat assessment teams and crack down on illegal firearms.

He also designated barangays to coordinate with schools for the violence prevention efforts.

“All barangays are directed to support violence prevention initiatives, encourage responsible reporting of threats and illegal firearms as well as maintain coordination with local police and school authorities,” Moreno said.

A timeline of 180 days is set for law enforcement units to update emergency response plans, assign safety coordinators and operate threat assessment teams and desks. 

The policy was enacted after two Grade 9 boys, ages 14 and 15, went on a shooting rampage inside a Tacloban school, killing three students and wounding 20 others on Monday.