Following a series of tragic violent incidents in schools, the Philippine government’s decision to increase police presence has drawn sharp criticism from education experts. The Educators Forum for Development-Mindanao (EFD-M) argues that framing school violence as a mere "peace and order" issue is a dangerous oversimplification. Instead, they are calling for an independent commission of social scientists and educators to investigate the deeper, systemic causes behind these attacks. Experts point out that children today are growing up in an environment saturated with violent rhetoric, the normalization of extrajudicial killings, and the unregulated influence of social media and gaming. By treating schools like fortresses rather than sanctuaries for learning, the government risks ignoring the mental health crisis and social neglect that fuel these outbursts.

The debate has intensified after officials suggested that educators share blame for the violence, a stance that has sparked outrage among school staff. Experts like Mae Fae Templa emphasize that teachers cannot be held responsible for the widespread availability of illegal firearms, political violence, or the lack of adequate mental health funding. Rather than scapegoating those on the front lines, the EFD-M insists that the government must move away from heavy-handed, militarized policies and address the reality of weapon accessibility and the scarcity of mental health support. Ultimately, these advocates believe that safe schools require holistic interventions that prioritize child welfare and social support over the presence of armed personnel on campus.