The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday asked parent-teacher associations (PTAs) to be partners in advancing safety in all public schools nationwide.

This is among the response to recent reports of violence, which have affected learners and school personnel nationwide.

In a news release, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara underscored the need for schools to collaborate with PTA to ensure support for learners, advance child protection, and address concerns early on.

“Schools cannot do this alone. Parents cannot do this alone,” he said.

“Pananagutan nating lahat ang kaligtasan ng ating mga anak at ang PTA ang isa sa pinakamahalagang tulay na nagdurugtong sa pamilya, paaralan at komunidad upang mapangalagaan ang bawat mag-aaral (The safety of our children is our responsibility and the PTA is one of the most important means linking families, schools and community, so we can take care of each learner),” he said.

Angara, likewise, urged schools to maximize PTA general assemblies and regular meetings to boost communication between parents and teachers.

Key discussions must cover learners’ attendance and behavior, identification of those needing additional support, as well as advancing positive discipline, anti-bullying efforts, responsible digital citizenship and mental health awareness.

“Our conversations with parents should not begin only when a problem has already occurred. The PTA gives us the opportunity to build trust, identify warning signs early, and work together before issues escalate,” Angara said.

For parents, he stressed the necessity to monitor their children’s performance and attendance, especially for learners at risk of dropping out.

“When parents and teachers communicate regularly, when schools work closely with local governments and community partners, and when learners know they have trusted adults they can turn to, we create an environment where problems are addressed early, and every child feels safe, supported, and valued,” Angara said.

Besides these, PTAs were also encouraged to conduct activities like parenting seminars, values formation sessions, digital safety orientations, peer support initiatives, community dialogues, and partnerships with barangays, local government units, youth organizations, and health professionals. (PNA)