The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up school security operations after authorities recovered an improvised firearm and a bladed weapon from two minor students during a routine inspection in Aparri, Cagayan on June 26, 2026.
Personnel from the 1st Maneuver Force Company and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company conducted the inspection in coordination with school officials as part of ongoing safety measures inside campuses.
Police said an improvised .38-caliber firearm was recovered from a 15-year-old Grade 10 student, while a kitchen knife was seized from a 14-year-old Grade 8 student.
Initial information suggests the incident may be linked to class-cutting and a personal dispute, though authorities said the matter remains under assessment.
Both minors were turned over to proper authorities and subjected to intervention procedures in line with child protection protocols and existing laws.
The incident adds to recent concerns involving weapons being brought into schools, prompting renewed calls for tighter coordination between law enforcement, educators, parents, and communities.
The PNP said the operation is part of its continuing partnership with the Department of Education to strengthen school safety programs under proactive policing and preventive enforcement measures.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said schools must remain safe spaces for learning and warned against waiting for violence before taking action.
The police force said it will continue coordinated inspections and preventive operations in schools nationwide to reduce risks and ensure secure learning environments.