NCRPO says MM school opening generally peaceful

MANILA, Philippines - The school opening in public schools in Metro Manila on Monday was generally peaceful, according to the National Capital Region Police Office.

NCRPO chief Police Director Carmelo Valmoria said there were no "significant" incidents reported on the first day of classes in Metro Manila schools.

"The NCRPO will continue deploying personnel at the vicinity of schools, in coordination with school authorities, to ensure the safety and security of the students in line with 'Oplan Balik Eskwela' of the PNP (Philippine National Police),"  Valmoria said.

Officials of the NCRPO, led by Valmoria, visited Monday morning several public elementary and high schools in the metropolis to inspect the security preparations of police personnel.

The PNP leadership has earlier said it would deploy more than 18,000 policemen will be on the opening of classes next week nationwide.

Aside from the 18,580 cops, the PNP said it would set up a total of 7,441 assistance desk in coordination with various local government units, parent teacher associations, and non-government organizations.
 
Of priority concern to the PNP are incidents of bullying and street crimes such as pickpocket, snatching, swindling, robberies, and street-level drug trafficking.