Mayor Gilbert Arrabis Jr. of Daanbantayan issued a memorandum on June 25, 2026, mandating heightened security protocols in all public and secondary schools following a school shooting in Tacloban City that killed three students and wounded 20 others.
Memorandum Details and Measures
Memorandum 2026-020 requires increased police visibility and routine bag inspections within school premises. The directive emphasizes streamlined coordination with school authorities and the Daanbantayan Police Station to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and the public.
Mayor Gungun Gica of Dumanjug earlier ordered the confiscation of cellphones during class hours as part of a total ban on cellphones inside schools amid safety concerns.
Metro Cebu and Mandaue City Actions
In Metro Cebu, enforcement agencies have intensified protocols including non-contact bag inspections and metal detectors to prevent prohibited weapons and dangerous objects on school grounds. Mandaue City has similarly implemented non-contact and non-intrusive entrance inspections in schools.
Lapu-Lapu City Directives
Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan directed the strengthening of security measures such as vehicle passes and biometric registration for students, teachers, and administrative personnel.
Tacloban Shooting Incident
These preventive measures follow the school shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, which resulted in three student deaths and 20 injuries. The suspects, aged 14 and 15, are in the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development after signing a voluntary commitment to the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth.
