Following the tragic incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, the University is strengthening its existing safety and security measures at the Bagumbayan and Bonoan Campuses to provide a safer and more secure environment for our students, employees, parents, visitors, and other members of the community.

After a review of current security arrangements and emerging campus needs, the University will implement and further assess the following measures:

1. Enhanced security screening. Security personnel will conduct appropriate screening at campus entry points, including the use of handheld metal detectors.
2. Installation of walk-through security screening equipment. By Monday, August 24, the main gate of both campuses will have a walk-through body scanner.
3. Vehicle inspection. Existing vehicle inspection procedures will continue to be reviewed and implemented at the Bagumbayan and Bonoan Campuses. The University recognizes the need to balance effective security screening with the orderly and efficient movement of vehicles entering the campuses.
4. Random security checks. In addition to regular screening procedures, security personnel may conduct random checks on the bags of anyone on campus as an added preventive measure. School units may issue more detailed guidelines regarding these procedures.
5. Deployment of additional security personnel. More security guards will be deployed in both campuses for better visibility and monitoring.
6. Installation of additional CCTV cameras. The installation of CCTV cameras at strategic areas of the Bagumbayan Campus is ongoing to strengthen campus monitoring and security.
7. Conduct of security preparedness drills. In consultation with the PNP, the Disaster Risk Reduction Team will conduct active threat security protocol and active threat security scenario drill at both campuses in the coming weeks to strengthen the University’s preparedness for emergency situations.

These measures are intended to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and the University’s capacity to respond appropriately to security concerns. We ask for the cooperation and understanding of all as these enhanced measures are implemented. Minor inconveniences resulting from security checks are necessary to help maintain a safe environment for the entire University community.

We will exert our utmost efforts, but we all need to understand the complexities involved, including the seemingly easy access to firearms in our society, the effects of excessive immersion in online platforms that may have violent content, and the capacity of people to process their feelings and respond appropriately. We enjoin all parents to collaborate closely with the school by closely monitoring the activities of their children.

Campus safety is a shared responsibility. Everyone is encouraged to remain vigilant, cooperate with our security personnel, and promptly report any suspicious activity or safety concern to the appropriate University authorities.

Thank you very much.