Instead of active shooter drills, here's what experts recommend for schools
The Philippine Department of Education has postponed nationwide active shooter drills following concerns from medical and psychiatric groups. Experts argue that such simulations can cause psychological harm to students without providing proven safety benefits.
Why it matters
The decision highlights a growing debate over the efficacy and mental health impact of school safety protocols in the face of rising violence.
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SIMULATION. Students of Manila Science High School participate in an active shooter drill on July 15, 2026.
The Department of Education postponed a nationwide active shooter drill in schools following concerns from medical groups. Experts recommended that schools conduct needs assessments and adopt discussion-based activities instead of simulations that could frighten children. This is AI-generated.
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) heeded the calls of some medical groups to postpone the nationwide active shooter drill initially set in public and private schools for Tuesday, August 25.
The Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA), the Philippine Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (PSCAP), and the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) warned that there is currently no evidence showing that simulations prevent attacks from happening.
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