Philippines holds nationwide drills to protect students from armed intruders after rare school shootings

BULACAN, Philippines - On September 3, 2026, a nationwide drill was conducted in Philippine high schools to prepare students for potential armed intrusions, following a series of rare school shootings. Around 3,000 students at Carlos F. Gonzales High School near Manila participated in the 12-minute exercise, which involved barricading doors, drawing curtains, and crouching under tables.

The drill was part of a broader effort by the Department of Education to enhance school security following the previous months' incidents. Education Undersecretary Malcolm Garma explained that the drills would help schools recognize threats and respond appropriately. The drills involved police, emergency responders, and around 250 school staff and teachers.

Teachers guided students to the covered court, where they waited for psychological assessments and parent pick-ups. However, mental health advocates warned against hyper-realistic drills that could cause lasting psychological harm. The Department of Education updated drill guidelines to prohibit such elements, using distinct early warning alarms instead.

Some parents remained hesitant, fearing the drills could make students view the world as fearful. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized the importance of the drills in improving coordination between local police and emergency units.