The Department of Education (DepEd) conducted its first active shooter drill at Manila Science High School on July 15, 2026, as part of efforts to improve school safety and prevent campus violence.

Over 1,700 students from Grades 7 to 12 and teachers participated in the exercise, which simulated an active shooter scenario using the 'run-hide-fight' protocol.Police were also present to assist and simulate apprehending the assailant.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the need to repeat such drills regularly, citing the recent fatal school shooting in Tacloban City on June 22, which killed three students and injured 20 others.

While some students found the drill 'unusual' and 'shocking,' others like 17-year-old Raya Pechayco highlighted the importance of mental health services for students.

Angara acknowledged budget constraints but pledged to seek more funding for security measures, including metal detectors and hiring 10,000 school counselor associates by 2027.The drill underscores growing concerns about school safety and the need for comprehensive measures to address campus violence.