PNP to resume school orientation program

MANILA, Philippines — With the resumption of face-to-face classes tomorrow, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will bring back its orientation program in learning institutions to protect students from getting recruited by communist front organizations and being victims of criminals.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said yesterday the program, which was scuttled for two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, will inform students about the schemes reportedly used by recruiters for left-leaning organizations and the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed component of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

She said some schools invite left-leaning organizations unknowingly.

Apart from warning students about communist front groups, Fajardo said police officers will also discuss crime prevention tips, the ill effects of illegal drugs and even how to avoid bullying from fellow students.

Fajardo said the orientation will depend on the schedule of the schools. The program will cover elementary, high school and college students.

The PNP will tap personnel with a background in teaching for the program.

“They know how to deal with children, young adults,” Fajardo said.

The PNP will deploy around 23,000 police officers nationwide to secure the resumption of in-person classes.