Amid growing concerns over student safety following the recent tragic events in Tacloban and Cavite, the Chiang Kai Shek College (CKSC) has announced a comprehensive reinforcement of its guidance and security programs. The move underscores the institution’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe, nurturing, and violence-free environment for its more than 3,600 students from preschool to college.
The decision comes on the heels of the devastating shooting at a school in Tacloban, which claimed the lives of three students and left several others wounded, as well as two separate stabbing incidents involving minors reported within school premises in Cavite.
CKSC President Judelio Yap emphasized that while the school maintains stringent security measures, the new initiative is a proactive step toward addressing the psychological and social root causes of violent behavior among the youth.
“Our priority extends beyond physical safety to the holistic well-being of our students. We are intensifying our guidance counseling and intervention efforts to identify and support learners who may be struggling with personal or social issues,” Yap stated. “We want to create an environment where students feel safe enough to come forward and seek help before a problem escalates.”
As part of the upgraded safety framework, CKSC is also expanding its regular emergency preparedness drills. In addition to the standard earthquake and fire drills, the school will now conduct scenario-based simulations for critical incidents, including shooting or stabbing threats. These drills are designed to equip both students and staff with calm, effective response strategies in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Yap also reiterated the school’s zero-tolerance policy on bullying, a stance that has long been enforced within the college. Students are regularly oriented on the severe repercussions of any form of aggression, which may include expulsion. However, the administration stressed that punitive measures are only one part of the equation; the primary focus remains on prevention through early intervention and open communication.
Expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims in Tacloban and Cavite, Yap extended his sympathies, particularly to the parents who lost their children. He assured the public that CKSC is taking these lessons to heart, implementing a multi-layered approach that marries stringent security with compassionate mental health support.
“We cannot afford to be reactive. We must be proactive,” Yap concluded. “Our goal is to ensure that every student under our care is not only physically secure but also emotionally supported, so they may focus on their growth and education without fear.”
With its enhanced protocols, CKSC aims to set a standard for campus safety and student welfare, reinforcing its reputation as an institution that prioritizes the future and well-being of its learners.
