PNP warns of rise in school threats, urges public to verify reports

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday warned of an increase in supposed threats against schools nationwide.

Speaking at a press briefing in Camp Crame, PNP public information office chief Col. Allen Rae Co said authorities have observed a rise in school-related threats, although he did not immediately provide data to support the claim.

“We do acknowledge the public’s concern about recent events, especially in our schools. We are actively working with the school authorities, the local governments and other stakeholders to ensure the safety of our school children,” he said.

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READ: QCPD: Social media posts about Bagong Silangan shooting are false

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He added that some threats may have been made by students attempting to avoid attending classes or taking examinations.

“Some are just trying to avoid going to school or maybe avoid taking an exam,” he added.

The PNP issued the reminder after false reports of a shooting at Bagong Silangan High School in Quezon City circulated online on Thursday.

The school clarified that students heard a loud banging sound from a construction site nearby and mistook the sound for gunshots.

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The school further explained that the claims began circulating through “alarming messages on [Facebook] Messenger.”

READ: DepEd issues guidelines to address school security, violations

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Co advised the public to immediately report suspicious information to authorities while refraining from sharing unverified posts that could cause unnecessary panic.

“Our advice to the public is, first, stay calm, but be vigilant. Report any threat or information that you might have immediately to the authorities,” he said.

“It’s also important for us not to share unverified information as it only amplifies the fear of the public.”

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Discussions of public concern over school safety were renewed after two suspects opened fire inside the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City last June, killing three students and injuring 20 others./dp