Cebu — In a swift legislative response to national safety concerns, the Cebu Provincial Government has launched the Cebu Safe Schools Program, formalized through Executive Order No. 35 signed on June 25, 2026. This new mandate requires all schools across the province to adopt uniform security protocols, including strictly controlled campus access and advanced visitor management systems. The order, spearheaded by Governor Pamela Baricuatro, seeks to create resilient learning environments where students are protected from emerging security threats. By standardizing safety, the province is ensuring that school administrators have a clear, actionable framework to prevent violence and improve emergency preparedness.
A Structured Approach to Campus Safety
Under the new guidelines, schools are mandated to conduct annual safety assessments and implement facility upgrades to address identified risks. This involves more than just locking gates; it requires regular emergency drills for fire, earthquake, and lockdown scenarios, ensuring that both staff and students are mentally prepared for crises. The program also establishes a provincial-level committee, chaired by the Governor and the Division Superintendent, to oversee the implementation of these measures. This creates a direct line of accountability between local government agencies and individual schools, ensuring that safety standards are consistently met.
Resource Allocation and Support
Recognizing that some institutions may face budget constraints, the provincial government has committed to assisting schools in acquiring necessary security equipment, subject to available funding. The Cebu Safe Schools Committee is tasked with integrating resources from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Gender and Development Office to create a comprehensive safety net. This collaborative structure ensures that school security is treated as a priority that spans across multiple sectors of government. It represents a proactive effort to provide schools with the tools they need to maintain a secure learning environment.
Prioritizing Inclusive Learning
The core policy declared under theorder is the promotion of "safe, secure, inclusive, and resilient" education for all Cebuano children. By moving toward a uniform system, the province aims to eliminate disparities in security quality between urban and rural schools. The standardization ensures that whether a student attends an institution in a bustling city or a quiet municipality, they are afforded the same level of protection. This commitment to educational security is viewed as a foundational element of the province's long-term goal of fostering an environment where young people can focus on their growth and academic success.
