PNP logs 1,275 school-related incidents from 2022 to 2025

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 1,275 school-related incidents involving children in conflict with the law (CICLs) were recorded by the Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Center (PNP – WCPC) from 2022 to 2025, the agency said on Wednesday.

Of the 1,275 school-related incidents, 210 incidents took place in 2022; 395 incidents in 2023; 345 incidents in 2024; and 325 incidents in 2025, according to the PNP in a statement.

It further noted that 279 of the incidents resulted in court cases; 323 remained under preliminary investigation; 52 were referred to social welfare authorities for the proper intervention; 221 were settled amicably; 119 were dismissed while 272 involved victims opting not to pursue charges.

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The national police force did not immediately detail the nature of the cases nor explain the current disposition of nine of the 1,275 school-related incidents.

“[T]he overwhelming majority of Filipino children are law-abiding and responsible members of society,” the PNP maintained.

Nonetheless, it said, “The recurring incidents reported in some schools underscore the need for sustained collaboration among parents, educators, local government units, social welfare agencies, and law enforcement authorities.”

The renewed discussion on school-related incidents and the involvement of CICLs came in the wake of the fatal shooting incident at a Tacloban City high school in which two students, aged 14 and 15, fired several shots, killing three and injuring several others.

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Both minors were taken into the custody of the police and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, but the Police Regional Office Eastern Visayas (PRO 8) has so far only filed murder and frustrated murder cases against the 15-year-old suspect.

Republic Act No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act states that children 15 years old and younger are exempt from criminal liability and would instead be subjected to intervention programs.

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The law also provides that children older than 15 years old but younger than 18 years old are only criminally liable if they acted with discernment.

“[T]he data provide[s] important context on the challenges faced by communities and educational institutions,” the PNP said of the 1,275 figure for school-related incidents involving CICLs.

“[D]iscussions on the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility involve broader considerations, including child protection, rehabilitation, public safety, and the perspectives of various stakeholders,” the national police force added.

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“The issue remains under the consideration of Congress,” it added. /jpv