De La Salle Lipa Suspends On-Site Classes for 5 Days Amid Security Concerns

LUCENA CITY — De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) has suspended on-site classes for five days beginning Tuesday, July 7, as it tightens campus security measures amid unspecified security concerns. In an advisory posted on its official Facebook page on Monday, the school said all classes from July 7 to 11 would be conducted synchronously through online platforms while it reviews and strengthens its security protocols. “With our security measures already in place and the installation of metal walkthrough detectors, this period will allow us to conduct a thorough review and ensure that every detail is accounted for before classes resume onsite,” DLSL said. The school reiterated that the decision “was not made lightly.” “It comes from the same place as everything we do — a deep sense of responsibility for every student, faculty member, and staff entrusted to our care. We ask for your full cooperation and understanding as we use this time to make our campus even safer for everyone’s return,” it added. Earlier on Monday, DLSL acknowledged reports circulating about campus security and assured students, parents, and employees that appropriate measures had been put in place. “We are aware of information recently circulating regarding campus security. Our personnel are on heightened alert, with additional officers strategically deployed across the campus,” the school said. The school also implemented stricter security protocols, including thorough bag inspections at all entry points, and said it was closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police to further enhance its security and emergency response measures. “With the love of a parent for every child in our care, we gently but clearly remind all that De La Salle Lipa stands watch, prepared and steadfast in keeping this community safe for everyone,” the advisory said. School officials, however, did not disclose the specific security concern that prompted the heightened measures. As of Tuesday, the Lipa City Police had not released any information on any security incident involving the school. DLSL said classes would continue without interruption through its online learning platforms, with faculty and staff prepared to deliver remote instruction. Details on schedules and virtual classrooms will be released through the school’s Learning Management System, Canvas. The move comes more than a week after Batangas City Integrated High School suspended classes and all on-site activities on June 29 after violent threats against students were posted on the school’s official Facebook page. Batangas police said the online messages contained threats of violence directed at students, prompting concern among school administrators and parents.