Student threats prompt probes in 2 schools in Leyte, Northern Samar

TACLOBAN CITY — Authorities in Leyte and Northern Samar are investigating alleged student threats against their schools, prompting officials to tighten security following last week’s deadly shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.

The alleged threats surfaced on social media over the weekend, although officials said there is no indication of any immediate danger.

READ: ‘Unacceptable:’ Marcos ‘heartbroken’ by Tacloban school shooting

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In Allen, Northern Samar, Mayor Katrina Mae Suan confirmed that authorities are verifying a social media post containing an alleged threat against Allen National High School.

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“We are aware of the social media post regarding an alleged threat involving Allen National High School,” Suan said Sunday.

The mayor also appealed to the public to remain calm, refrain from spreading unverified information, and allow authorities to complete their investigation.

She said the Allen municipal government, in coordination with the Philippine National Police and school officials, has deployed additional security personnel to schools beginning Monday as part of enhanced security measures.

“We encourage everyone to report any suspicious activity to the proper authorities. The safety of our schools is a shared responsibility,” Suan added.

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Meanwhile, the administration of Palo National High School in Palo, Leyte disclosed that it had received two reports involving alleged threats sent through Facebook and Messenger.

School officials immediately referred the matter to law enforcement authorities to identify and trace the individuals behind the social media accounts involved.

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“At present, there is no immediate threat or harm resulting from these messages. However, the school remains alert and vigilant. The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority,” the school administration said Saturday.

The school also warned social media users that online threats are traceable through cybercrime investigations and may result in criminal prosecution.

It likewise appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s online activities, particularly their social media use, in the wake of the Tacloban tragedy.

“We strongly urge you to monitor and discipline the online activities of your minor children. Please know what they are viewing, who they are communicating with, the content of their messages, and what they are posting on social media,” the administration said.

The incidents come just days after the June 22 shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban, where two minor suspects opened fire during the school’s morning flag ceremony, killing three students and injuring 20 others.

READ: Slain girl’s kin seek raps vs younger suspect in school shooting

Three of the injured students remain confined in the intensive care unit, according to hospital authorities.

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The shooting at San Jose National High School has prompted schools and local government units across Eastern Visayas to strengthen campus security, increase police visibility, and intensify monitoring of social media platforms. /mcm