Gun found in student’s bag owned by grandpa?

CEBU, Philippines — The police are now looking into reports that the firearm found inside the school bag of a 14-year-old student during a routine inspection in Pinamungajan, Cebu, may have been owned by his grandfather.

In a statement on August 20, 2026, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed the recovery of the firearm after school personnel sought police assistance when it was discovered.

The firearm was found without ammunition and has since been placed under police custody for safekeeping and proper disposition, according to the PNP.

The PNP said the firearm was allegedly owned by the student’s grandfather. However, authorities are still verifying the ownership of the weapon and the circumstances surrounding its possession.

Nartatez said appropriate accountability will be determined in accordance with existing laws if a violation is established.

Under Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, the student was turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office for appropriate intervention.

Authorities also coordinated with the child’s guardian and concerned barangay officials.

Nartatez commended the school personnel for their vigilance and prompt coordination with authorities following the discovery of the firearm.

The PNP reminded parents, guardians, and firearm owners to ensure that firearms are properly secured and kept inaccessible to children and unauthorized persons.

It also urged schools and communities to immediately coordinate with authorities whenever safety concerns arise.

The PNP said it remains committed to working with schools, families, and communities to help maintain safe learning environments while protecting the rights and welfare of children.

Lapu-lapu tightens security watch

The Lapu-Lapu City Government is strengthening security measures in schools following a shooting incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University that left two students dead, including the alleged shooter.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the Ateneo de Zamboanga community, stressing that schools should remain safe spaces for students to learn and grow.

“Dili unta mahitabo nga ang atong mga anak mahadlok sulod mismo sa ilang eskwelahan,” King-Chan said.

King-Chan said security measures are already being implemented in Lapu-Lapu City schools in coordination with the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO), barangay officials, and the Department of Education (DepEd).

Following the Zamboanga incident on August 18, 2026, she directed PCol. Agosto Daskeo to further strengthen police visibility and security in and around schools and maintain close coordination with school authorities.

“Naa na tay mga lakang para maprotektahan ang atong mga estudyante, pero dili ta mag-kompyansa. We must remain vigilant and continue strengthening school security,” she said.

King-Chan said the city government will continue addressing security concerns and implementing measures to protect students, teachers, and school personnel.

“Among buhaton ang tanan nga atong mahimo aron malikayan nga mahitabo sa atong syudad ang susamang trahedya,” she said.

The mayor also extended her sympathies and prayers to the victims, their families, and the Ateneo de Zamboanga community. — (FREEMAN)