The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has assured it is all set to help secure the “Balik Eskwela 2022” today, Monday, August 22 all throughout Metro Manila.
The NCRPO covers five districts — the Manila Police District (MPD), Quezon City Police District (QCPD), Northern Police District (NPD), Southern Police District (SPD) and Eastern Police District (EPD).
NCRPO acting chief, Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, deputy regional director for operations inspected the situation in the MPD, while Brig. Gen. Jose Hidalgo, deputy regional director for administration, randomly checked the NPD.
He said the SPD, QCPD and EPD were also inspected by key officers of the regional police staff, adding he also deployed personnel to strictly implement the minimum public health and safety protocols and provide assistance to students especially when crossing pedestrian lanes.
The NCPRO needs to secure 1,342 private and public schools in Metro Manila. Estomo said they have fielded out a total of 9,731 police personnel for the opening of classes today. The number will be augmented by some 4,530 other force multipliers and 2,994 security guards.
There are also 521 Police Assistance Desks established manned by policemen, while 3,423 mobile and foot patrollers are tasked to provide all kinds of assistance to students and school staff, aside from 372 Tactical Motorcycle Riders, 60 bus marshals, 154 cops in transportation hubs/terminals and 191 traffic marshals tasked to secure children along roads and major thoroughfares in the NCR.
Records show a total of 1.8 million students are currently enrolled in Metro Manila. As part of his plans for the Balik Eskwela. Estomo will also lead the distribution of free school supplies to students in different schools within Metro Manila, especially those from indigent families, alongside with fliers and other instructional materials.
To keep learners away from lawless elements, Estomo also urges the public to immediately report any suspicious person or activities in their area to the nearest police station and police assistance desk.