Tacloban city: Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday identified bullying as a potential factor in the tragic school shooting in Tacloban City that resulted in the deaths of three students. The incident, which took place inside a classroom, has raised concerns about school safety and the influence of video games on minors.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla mentioned in an interview that initial feedback suggested the incident was a "bullying gone wrong" scenario. The two suspects, both minors, were reportedly influenced by video games after being bullied. Remulla stressed the importance of enhancing learner protection and school safety measures, while also promoting responsible citizenship online and offline.
Remulla noted that police officers are stationed at all schools, but frisking students is not permitted. He clarified the jurisdictional boundaries, stating that the Philippine National Police (PNP) operates outside the school premises, while school principals manage internal affairs. He emphasized the need to review existing policies to better safeguard students.
In light of the incident, Remulla voiced support for proposals to lower the age of criminal responsibility, pointing out that minors are sometimes exploited as drug couriers due to current legal protections. Republic Act 9344, the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, exempts children aged 15 and below from criminal liability, subjecting them to intervention programs instead. Those aged 15 to 18 are only held liable if they acted with discernment.
The suspects involved in the Tacloban school shooting, aged 14 and 15, are now in the custody of local police and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has confirmed that criminal complaints, including three counts of murder, have been filed against the 15-year-old suspect known as alias Rod.
Nartatez also cautioned against the dissemination of videos and photos related to school violence. He highlighted the potential harm such content could cause to victims, their families, and fellow students. Nartatez described the spread of graphic videos as a profound act of cruelty, urging the public to respect child protection and privacy standards during the investigation process.
Nartatez advised content creators and social media users to refrain from sharing harmful videos, emphasizing that online engagement should not compromise human dignity. He tasked the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group to monitor online content related to the incident and collaborate with social media platforms for possible content removal.
Local police units have been directed to engage with school officials, parents, and student leaders in discussions about school safety and responsible social media use, fostering a more secure and supportive educational environment.
