Saint Mary’s University (SMU) conducted a Security Threat and Violent Incident Preparedness Orientation on September 23, 2026, at the Sacred Heart Center, Saint Mary’s University. The activity was organized by the school administrators, led by Mr. Samuel B. Damayon, JD, VP for Administration, Mrs. Pearl Via S. Coballes, Director, HRDO, and Mr. Hansen T. Villanueva, Head, SPCO.

The said activity was attended by the faculty and staff members of the SMU-Senior High School and Junior High School led by Mr. Melencio G. Bernardino, Jr., Principal of SMU-SHS; Dr. Zaida S. Asunsion, Principal of SMU JHS; and Dr. Henry F. Gamboa, ADSAS for Men. The orientation aimed to strengthen the participants’ awareness, knowledge, and preparedness in responding effectively to security threats and violent incidents within the campus, thereby promoting a safer and more secure environment for the entire Marian community.

The orientation covered essential topics on emergency response and security management, including the Incident Command System (ICS), human-induced critical incidents, and the escalation protocols for such incidents. The participants were also oriented on the roles and responsibilities of first responders, the Incident Commander (IC), and the Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT) during hostage situations.

Other important discussions focused on appropriate responses to bomb threats, suspected and confirmed explosives or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), bomb explosions, and shooting incidents, including active shooter situations. The Philippine National Police (PNP) Project ABKD, or Awareness of Bombs that Kill Lives and Destroy Properties, was also presented to increase awareness of the dangers associated with explosives and the importance of proper reporting and response procedures.

The activity was facilitated by PSSGT Jennifer P. Dulnuan, Bayombong Municipal Police Station (MPS) PCR-PNCO, who discussed security threats and violent incident preparedness. Meanwhile, PEMS Marlon A. Tumanut of the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Explosives Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit (NV-PECU) discussed PNP Project ABKD, emphasizing awareness and preparedness in dealing with bomb threats and explosives-related incidents.

Through this initiative, SMU reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its students, faculty, staff, and to the entire Marian community. The activity emphasized the importance of preparedness, effective coordination, and adherence to established emergency response protocols to minimize casualties, maintain order, and promote a safe and secure learning environment for all.