Over 37,000 policemen will be deployed nationwide for the opening of classes on Monday.

In a statement, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said 37,740 will be deployed to over 45,000 public and private schools across the Philippines.

More than 5,000 police assistance desks will be set up nationwide to be manned by 10,759 police personnel "tasked to assist students, parents, and school staff on the ground," it stated.

PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III said the safety of students, teachers, and school staff remains their priority.

"We want to ensure that our children return to school without fear or harm. Our police officers will be in every possible area to provide protection, guidance, and support," Torre said.

In a radio interview, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Public Information Officer (PIO) Major Hazel Asilo said 6,201 policemen will be deployed to 1,163 public and private schools in the region.

Meanwhile, 506 police assistance desks will be established near the schools to be manned by around 1,700 policemen.

The PNP is in full coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), local government units, and other partnered agencies for the resumption of classes as part of their Oplan Balik-Eskwela campaign.

"All (agencies) will work full-force tomorrow," she added. Kate Christian Ravelo/DMS