TARLAKENYO (August 12, 2025) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a memorandum circular mandating the deployment of barangay tanods to all public schools under the Department of Education (DepEd).
Barangay tanods, as authorized under the Local Government Code of 1991, will assist in traffic management, conduct patrols, monitor potential threats, and coordinate with local authorities to safeguard learners, teachers, and school staff.
The Philippines has over 47,000 public schools under DepEd, serving millions of students daily.
In Tarlac province alone, there are approximately 600 public schools, highlighting the critical need for coordinated safety measures. The DILG’s move aims to address concerns about crimes and untoward incidents in school vicinities, particularly during peak hours.
According to the circular, barangay tanods will manage traffic during school arrival and dismissal times, patrol entry points and adjacent public spaces, report incidents endangering the school community, and support additional security measures as directed by local officials.
City and municipal mayors have been urged to assist barangays in implementing this initiative, while DILG regional offices are tasked with ensuring widespread dissemination of the directive.
