Tacloban: The Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas (PRO-8) has filed criminal charges against a 15-year-old child in conflict with the law (CICL) in connection with the June 22 shooting incident at San Jose National High School here that left three students dead and several others injured. In a statement on Wednesday, the PRO-8 said the complaint was filed Tuesday night through inquest proceedings before the Office of the City Prosecutor in Tacloban City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the charges include three counts of murder, three counts of frustrated murder, and multiple counts of serious physical injury. Authorities said the two minors involved in the incident remain in the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth in Tanauan, Leyte, where they are undergoing legal proceedings and intervention measures in accordance with laws governing youths under CICL.

Meanwhile, police investigators continue to gather and verify evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the sequence of events to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish accountability. PRO-8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy said the investigation is being conducted with utmost diligence, fairness and due process.

"We remain committed to establishing the truth and ensuring accountability under the law. Further developments will be announced as soon as additional verified information becomes available," Capoy said. The police official advised the public to stay calm, check information before sharing, refrain from spreading unverified reports and promptly report any suspicious activity to authorities.