Cops turned over 14-year-old to DSWD

CEBU, Philippines — The Danao City Police identified a 14-year-old minor who allegedly made online threats against schools in Danao City and subsequently turned the minor over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)-Danao for appropriate intervention.

Police received the report after threatening messages were sent to the social media account of an educational institution on August 5, 2026.

The messages threatened students and warned of a possible attack inside a school, while also mentioning other educational institutions in the area.

Following the formal report on August 9, the Danao City Police immediately launched verification and investigation during the early hours of August 10.

Through social media investigation, information validation, and coordination with barangay officials, investigators established leads that led to the identification and location of the minor allegedly behind the account.

The minor was brought to the Women and Children Protection Desk for inquiry, accompanied by a guardian and a relative.

During the inquiry, the minor admitted making the posts and reportedly said they were made “just for fun.”

The minor also disclosed experiencing frustrations related to school, family concerns, and bullying.

Following the inquiry, the minor was turned over to the CSWDO-Danao for assessment, intervention, and rehabilitation.

Cebu Police Provincial Office Provincial Director PCOL Abubakar Udang Mangelen Jr. commended the Danao City Police for the prompt action and stressed that all threats against schools must be taken seriously, even when allegedly made as a prank or joke.

Mangelen said school threats can cause fear and place students and school personnel at risk, emphasizing that police will continue to respond to every report while ensuring that minors are provided appropriate protection and intervention under the law.

Meanwhile, police continue to coordinate with school authorities and local officials, including efforts to strengthen police visibility and security monitoring in affected areas.

The CPPO reminded the public to report suspicious or threatening online activities to authorities immediately and to use social media responsibly. — (FREEMAN)