PNP urges public to verify reports amid rise in school threats

MANILA, Philippines — A nationwide increase in alleged threats targeting schools prompted a warning from the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday, as the force urged the public to verify reports.

During a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Allen Rae Co noted a visible increase in school-related threats, though he did not immediately present specific data to back up 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.

READ: No threat found at Cebu City school after shooting scare

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.

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

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

Report suspicious school threats

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.”

READ: DepEd issues guidelines to address school security, violations

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