TACLOBAN CITY— The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) has deployed a total of 3,818 personnel across Eastern Visayas to ensure the safety and security of students, teachers, and school personnel for the opening of School Year 2026–2027 under Oplan Balik-Eskwela.
The security coverage, which began on June 1, 2026, is being implemented under the leadership of PRO-8 Regional Director B/GEN. Jason Capoy as part of efforts to maintain peace and order in and around schools across the region.
PRO-8 identified 4,178 schools regionwide and established 373 Police Assistance Desks (PADs) strategically located to respond to public safety concerns during the school opening period.
Of the total deployment, 1,974 are police regional office personnel, supported by 214 personnel from other units and 1,630 force multipliers.
The security operation is further reinforced by 738 personnel assigned to PADs, along with 569 mobile patrols and 667 foot patrol teams to ensure heightened police visibility.
B/Gen. Capoy said the deployment reflects the police force’s commitment to safeguarding learning environments and ensuring the orderly return of students to schools.
“This deployment reflects PRO-8’s commitment to maintaining peace and order in and around school premises and ensuring the safety of learners as they return to school,” the police regional director said in a statement.
PRO-8 also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in maintaining safe and secure school surroundings throughout the duration of the Balik-Eskwela period.
Authorities said the enhanced security measures will continue in the coming days as part of sustained efforts to support a safe and orderly opening of classes across Eastern Visayas.
(JOEY A. GABIETA with LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
