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Helen Flores - The Philippine Star
June 28, 2026 | 12:00am
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on February 11, 2026.
PPA Pool Photos by Mark Balmores
MANILA, Philippines — Amid rising violence involving minors, President Marcos has called for a whole-of-community approach to ensure the safety of the Filipino youth.
In his latest vlog posted on YouTube yesterday, Marcos said the country has witnessed heartbreaking and horrifying tragedies involving Filipino children in recent weeks.
“Today, I speak not only as President but also as a father, as a fellow Filipino and as someone who is deeply concerned about the safety of our children,” Marcos said.
He cited the fatal shooting inside a classroom in Tacloban and two incidents of stabbing in schools in Cavite, all of which involved minors.
He also mentioned the death of two student-athletes due to drowning during a team-building activity.
“The school should be a place of learning, dreams and growth. Not a place where parents fear for the safety of their children,” the President said.
“And so, I have directed our education and health agencies, the police and local government units to further strengthen measures for the safety of students across the country,” he said.
Marcos said schools must strictly enforce measures to prevent violence, whether inside the classroom, on field trips, training camps or other school activities.
“Although these were different circumstances, the message they show us is the same. We need to protect our young people. Protect them against violence. Protect them against neglect. Protect them against danger. And protect them against silent battles and burdens that many of them carry,” he said.
The Chief Executive, meanwhile, urged the youth to seek help when in need, saying asking for support is not an indication of weakness.
He also reminded parents to maintain an open communication with their children.
“To every student watching today, your life matters. Your struggles matter. And asking for help is never a sign of weakness,” Marcos said.
“To parents, don’t underestimate the value of a simple conversation with your child. Sometimes, the most important protection we can give our children is our time, attention and understanding,” he said.
