Barangay Tanods to Boost Safety in Public Schools Nationwide
As the new school year begins, officials emphasized the urgent need to deploy barangay tanods in public schools nationwide for safety. This measure aims to protect students by enhancing security within school premises and surrounding areas.
According to local authorities, barangay tanods, commonly known as community watchmen, are mandated to collaborate closely with the Department of Education (DepEd) schools in their jurisdiction. Their responsibilities include managing student traffic during arrival and dismissal, patrolling school grounds, and reporting any suspicious or threatening activities.
Key Roles of Barangay Tanods in School Security
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) outlined through Memorandum Circular 2025-072 that tanods should undertake several critical tasks to secure school zones. These include:
- Directing traffic flow to ensure student safety during peak times
- Conducting regular patrols within school premises and nearby areas frequented by students
- Monitoring and promptly reporting incidents that could jeopardize the welfare of students
- Carrying out additional lawful duties assigned by barangay leaders or the police to maintain peace and order
Support from Local Government Crucial for Implementation
Community leaders highlighted the importance of full logistical support from city and municipal mayors. Such backing is vital to empower barangays in effectively deploying their tanods and sustaining the safety initiative.
Sources noted that under Republic Act No. 7160, also known as the Local Government Code of 1991, tanods serve as essential community service units. Their role in peace and order efforts is longstanding and now extends to safeguarding students within school environments.
Building on Existing Mandates for Community Safety
Officials reported that this school safety drive builds upon the tanods’ existing duties as outlined in DILG Memorandum Circular 2024-086. These duties include patrolling neighborhoods, securing high-risk areas, crime prevention, and assisting with traffic management.
By integrating these tasks, barangay tanods can provide a safer atmosphere for children and contribute to the overall peace and security of communities surrounding public schools.
For more news and updates on public school safety, visit Filipinokami.com.
