(Davao City, 25 August 2026). The Social Development Committee XI (SDC XI) adopted measures to strengthen governance, school security, and social protection across the Davao Region, headlined by the push for a Regional School Safety Security Framework. 

In response to rising threats of school shootings involving junior and senior high school students, the SDC XI recommended the formulation of a Comprehensive School Safety Security Framework for all local government units (LGUs) in the region. The Department of Education (DEPED) XI shall take the lead in the preparation of the framework in coordination with concerned agencies. 

SDC XI emphasized the need for an integrated, region-specific strategic framework on school-based violence that builds on DEPED’s existing multi-pillar approach combining policy, high-intensity drills, and holistic learner support. 

In addition, SDC XI endorsed policy recommendations from the CY 2025 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA), including a regional improvement program with province-specific targets, a regional protocol on child data and evidence standards, and targeted equity support for low-performing and disaster-affected LGUs. 

The Committee also endorsed the selection of RD Maria Ines Asuncion of DepEd XI as the new SDC XI Chairperson for the remainder of the term 2026–2028, following the transfer of former SDC XI Chairperson RD Rhuello Aradanas to the Department of Social Welfare and Development Central Office. Other resolutions endorsed include the Social Sector Annual Investment Program (AIP) for FY 2028 covering 1,477 programs with an investment target of PHP 120.7 billion, and the membership of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) to SDC XI.