‘Your Millennial Psychologist’ questions DepEd’s ₱8-billion school security push

In the comments section, Portuguez described the proposal as another “band-aid solution,” arguing that while stronger security measures may be necessary, they do not address the root causes of school violence.

The discussion comes after DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara announced the proposed additional funding during the National Safe Schools Summit and Safety Drill held at Manila Science High School.

According to DepEd, the country currently has only about 2,500 security guards serving more than 48,000 public schools, prompting the department to seek funds for additional licensed security personnel, metal detectors, and other campus safety upgrades.

The proposal follows several recent incidents of campus violence, including a fatal shooting in a school in Tacloban City that renewed calls for tighter school security.

“Root cause” vs. “last line of defense”

Portuguez’s post quickly resonated with many social media users, several of whom argued that preventing violence requires more than physical security.

One commenter questioned why schools were prioritizing shooter drills instead of addressing “the culture of neglect, violence and mental health,” adding that drills merely allow authorities to say “they did something” without solving deeper problems.

Another commenter said security protocols should not receive extensive public coverage because revealing them could expose potential weaknesses that future attackers might exploit.

Others echoed Portuguez’s concern that stronger anti-bullying programs, counseling services, and accessible mental healthcare should receive equal, if not greater, government attention.

Others say both are necessary

Not everyone agreed with the criticism.

Several commenters argued that hiring licensed security guards is not a “band-aid solution” but a practical necessity, particularly in public schools where many campuses reportedly have either aging guards or none at all.

One parent said active threat drills remain important as long as they are paired with sustained efforts to address students’ mental health concerns.

Another commenter noted that public schools often lack the budget to hire qualified security personnel, saying the proposed funding could help protect students from external threats while broader reforms are pursued.

Portuguez acknowledged this point in the discussion, replying to one commenter that while she agrees that schools need better security, the deeper causes of violence must be highlighted more.

A broader debate

The online discussion reflects a broader national conversation over how schools should respond to growing concerns about campus violence.

While DepEd has framed its proposed funding as a way to strengthen physical safety and emergency preparedness, mental health advocates continue to argue that long-term prevention also requires stronger counseling services, anti-bullying interventions, and psychological support systems for students.

As the proposed budget heads to Congress for consideration, the debate has shifted beyond security guards and shooter drills to a larger question: whether protecting students begins at the school gate—or much earlier, inside the classroom.

READ: