AUTHORITIES have formally submitted a criminal complaint against the 15-year-old student detained in connection with the fatal shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8) announced on Wednesday.
According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Analiza Armeza, chief of the PRO 8 Public Information Office, the document was filed with the Office of the Prosecutor late Tuesday evening.
“We already have filed the criminal complaint against the Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL) who is above 15 years old last night with the Prosecutor’s Office,” Armeza stated during an interview on Unang Balita. The filing covers one of the two suspects in custody; the other is 14 years old. The incident on June 22 left three students dead and several others wounded.
Regarding the motive, Armeza confirmed that bullying was among the angles investigated, though she emphasized that the case is now under the jurisdiction of the prosecution service. “That was one of the areas we looked into, but even after filing, we continue to consider other possible motives to ensure a complete picture and proper intervention measures,” she explained. She also noted that while initial findings show the younger suspect fired more rounds, this detail will be verified and confirmed during the prosecutor’s evaluation.
Authorities also provided an update on the police officer whose 9mm pistol was used in the attack. The weapon belonged to the aunt of the 14-year-old suspect, who reportedly took it from its hiding place inside their home. Armeza said the officer has been placed under restrictive custody, her assignment has been terminated, and an administrative investigation is now underway to determine her liability for failing to secure her service firearm.
Both minor suspects have been turned over to the Tacloban City Social Welfare and Development Office, where they will be held in accordance with laws governing children in conflict with the law. Authorities are also looking into the possibility of filing charges against their parents or guardians, as part of their law enforcement actions. Armeza clarified that after thorough verification, investigators confirmed only the two teenagers were directly involved in the shooting, dismissing reports that other students participated.
Meanwhile, the injured victims remain in stable condition as they continue to receive medical care. In response to the incident, PRO 8 has ordered increased police visibility near all schools in the region, including regular foot and mobile patrols. The police force is also strengthening coordination with school administrations, parent‑teacher associations, local government units, and barangay officials to improve security and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
