World

Philippine Groups Call for Postponement of Active Shooter Drills

Two psychiatric associations urge the delay of live shooter drills in schools as the DepEd postpones its planned simulation due to inclement weather.

25 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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In the Philippines, two psychiatric groups, the Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA) and the Philippine Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (PSCAP), have called for the postponement of scheduled live shooter drills in public schools. They argue that there is currently no evidence supporting the notion that these simulations reduce casualties or prevent incidents, indicating a need for reevaluation of the approach to school safety drills.

The Department of Education (DepEd) announced the postponement of its nationwide Simultaneous School Safety Drill for Active Attack Incidents, originally slated for Tuesday, August 25, due to severe weather conditions and the cancellation of face-to-face classes in various areas. The drills are now expected to take place in the first week of September 2026, according to DepEd.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed willingness to engage in consultations with relevant agencies regarding the upcoming active shooter drills. This follows concerns voiced by both the PPA and PSCAP about the potential negative impact of hyper-realistic simulations on students, which the groups believe could instill unnecessary fear.

The Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) has further criticized the drills, stating that existing evidence about children's participation in active-attack and lockdown simulations is limited or mixed. They recommend exploring nonsimulated preparedness and conducting a thorough review of current safety measures instead of continuing with high-intensity drills that may induce anxiety or a sense of decreased safety among children.

In light of these concerns, some medical groups have recommended alternative approaches to safety drills in schools, emphasizing discussion-based activities and the implementation of trauma-informed strategies. They advocate for methods that can help in better preparing students without exposing them to undue stress.

The PNP is currently working collaboratively with schools to adjust the proposed drills, acknowledging the apprehensions voiced by advocacy and medical groups. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio stated the importance of ensuring that the drills do not cause excessive fear or distress among students and teachers.

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