The Philippine National Police on Thursday announced stricter monitoring of minors using cigarettes and vape devices as the force intensified its Oplan Bisita Eskwela.
PNP Spokesperson Col. Redrico Maranan explained that new Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda decided to give out the directive after parents and teachers appealed to watch over them.
“Our Chief PNP has received reports that some have been accosted, warned, and had vape items and products confiscated which they are bringing into and around schools,” said Maranan in a public briefing.
The spokesman also shared that the PNP will partner with the Department of Social Welfare and Development in enforcing the smoking ban among minors.
PNP’s Oplan Balik Eskwela required police officers to visit local communities and patrol schools in their respective areas of responsibility to prevent students from being victimized by criminal elements.
Maranan added that the police will coordinate with local government units and follow local ordinances and laws in enforcing the order.
Acorda commanded the chiefs of police and provincial directors to coordinate with local government units and school officials to guard the youth from using vape and smoking, “because we know the ill effects they have on their young bodies,” he added.
Maranan also assured the public that the police will handle the cases carefully, especially cases concerning minors.
“There should be special handling of their cases too. We don’t want them to be thrown into jail or just file charges against them. We want to warn them, remind them, and give them proper information (on vaping and smoking),” he stressed.