PNP eyes nationwide rollout of school alert system

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it was looking to expand a technology-driven alert and response system developed in Calabarzon to help schools quickly report and respond to security threats.

PNP chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the agency was studying the institutionalization of the “Build Partnership. Early Detection. Swift Alert. Tactical Response” (B.E.S.T.) School Alert and Rapid Response System.

The platform is designed to facilitate faster reporting, information-sharing and coordination among police, schools, and other local stakeholders during emergencies and security incidents.

“We are exploring the institutionalization of this rapid response system to further help us identify and respond to threats in schools, as well as ensure better coordination and swift action in any incident or challenge,” Nartatez said in a statement. 

The proposal follows security concerns after three school shootings and various incidents of campus violence rocked the country this year.  

Under the Calabarzon pilot program, around 155 schools are set to use the application as part of an organized alert and response mechanism.

“Technology is a critical aspect of our security and law enforcement, and our personnel must have access to modern facilities and training innovations to improve our security systems,” Nartatez said. 

The PNP added that it would coordinate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to further develop and sustain the platform if it is rolled out nationwide.

“We have skilled police experts, and we are also equipped with advanced technology that can help us elevate our emergency response techniques. Now is the time to utilize them properly,” Nartatez said.