MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Sunday it is fully prepared to deploy over 37,000 police officers across the country for the official opening of classes on Monday, June 16.

Under Oplan Balik-Eskwela 2025–2026, a total of 37,740 police personnel will be dispatched to ensure the safety of learners, teachers, and school personnel in 45,974 public and private schools nationwide.

PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III said the deployment is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to protect students and maintain peace and order as millions return to school.

“Our police officers are ready to provide protection, guidance, and support. The safety of our students remains our utmost priority,” Torre said. “We will be on the ground—rain or shine—to make sure learners can focus on their studies without fear.”

Of the total personnel, 10,759 will man 5,079 Police Assistance Desks (PADs) set up near school areas, while 10,687 officers will conduct mobile patrols and 16,366 will be assigned to foot patrols in high-density and critical areas.

Central Visayas will have the largest number of deployed police at 7,366, followed by Bicol with 2,962, Metro Manila with 4,323, and Eastern Visayas with 2,376. In Mindanao, the Bangsamoro region will see 2,898 officers deployed across 657 schools.

In preparation for class resumption, the PNP also participated in Brigada Eskwela, helping clean, repair, and repaint school facilities. Authorities reported a generally peaceful and incident-free run-up to the class opening.

Meanwhile, the PNP warned against threats such as drug peddling and recruitment of students by militant groups, saying these will be met with firm action.

The police urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest station or through PNP hotlines.