MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to deploy more than 37,000 police officers across the country to ensure safety and security during the opening of classes on June 16.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said in a radio interview on Saturday that the deployment aims to boost police visibility and strengthen beat patrols in areas surrounding schools and along main roads.

“Nakahanda na tayo. Mahigit mga 37,000 police officers ang idedeploy natin (We are ready. We will deploy over 37,000 police officers),” Fajardo said.

Police assistance desks will also be set up, while mobile and foot patrol units will be dispatched to provide security and assist students, parents, and school personnel.

The school opening will also serve as a real-time assessment of the PNP’s capacity for rapid response — a key priority under the leadership of PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre.

Torre earlier announced plans to close all police boxes and community precincts in favor of maximizing police visibility on the ground, especially in public areas.

He said this policy is part of broader efforts to proactively deter crime and neutralize potential threats in communities.

Torre added that the move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to go beyond improving crime statistics and focus on making citizens truly feel safe.