Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan has issued a directive to local authorities and education officials to strengthen security measures in schools, including mandatory bag inspections for students, in response to a recent shooting incident at a school in Tacloban City.
Mayor’s Directive and Emotional Appeal
In an interview with SunStar Cebu on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, Chan confirmed that she instructed the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office and the Department of Education (DepEd) Lapu-Lapu City Schools Division Office to enforce inspections of students' bags and personal belongings as part of heightened security protocols.
“I already directed DepEd Lapu-Lapu to conduct bag inspection before entering the schools,” Chan said. “I am deeply saddened with what happened in Tacloban. It is a great concern for me as a mother of the city and a mother of four kids…I pray for all the victims and their families for justice and peace.” The mayor also urged parents to take a more active role in monitoring their children's activities.
Security Protocols Modeled After Local Institution
According to Chan, school heads have already been informed to adopt security measures modeled after those implemented by an educational institution in Lapu-Lapu City. These measures include inspections of bags and personal belongings, vehicle security checks, a car pass system, and mandatory biometric registration for students, teachers, faculty members, and staff.
DepEd and Police Collaboration
DepEd Lapu-Lapu City Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Ronald Ferrer stated that the division is taking proactive steps to enhance safety in schools and offices. “We will release a memorandum on this effect and we are tightening security routines and protocol with our schools and offices,” Ferrer said. He added that the police have also provided recommendations to further strengthen security protocols in schools.
