The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered investigators to build strong cases against individuals who allegedly made firearms accessible to minors involved in the fatal shooting inside a school in Tacloban City.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said authorities are also coordinating with the Department of Justice (DOJ) as they navigate the legal processes involving the two minors implicated in the incident.
Investigators are looking into the liability of a police officer whose licensed 9mm pistol was allegedly used by her 14-year-old nephew during the attack. The officer has been placed under restrictive custody and may face separate administrative charges.
Authorities are also probing the possible responsibility of a private security agency linked to a .38 revolver recovered in the incident.
“With all the pieces of evidence available, I expect a solid case that can stand in court,” Nartatez said, warning licensed gun owners on accountability tied to firearm possession.
He stressed that law enforcement personnel are expected to uphold stricter standards of responsibility, given their training and role in enforcing firearms regulations.
While acknowledging public demand for swift justice, Nartatez said the involvement of minors requires strict adherence to legal procedures under existing laws.
Part of the ongoing probe includes determining potential liability of parents or guardians for possible negligence in securing firearms and preventing access.
“We will run after all those who made this possible, especially on how these minors were able to access the firearms they used,” he said.
The PNP has also directed regional units to tighten coordination with schools and reinforce safety protocols following the incident, in line with directives from Malacañang and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
Nartatez urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information online, warning that misinformation could intensify panic while investigations are ongoing.