Story perspectives

Philippines issues new school-violence protocols after shooting

8/19/2026

Summary

Philippines Issues Protocols

The Philippines issued new school-violence protocols on Aug 18, 2026 after the Ateneo de Zamboanga University shooting.
The Cybercrime Investigation Center is monitoring footage and working with Meta to remove it.
Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara warned that students hide knives in shoes, underwear or tumblers.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla will forensic-examine the shooter’s devices.
PUERSA reiterated the Run-Hide-Fight protocol, urging people to run, hide or fight as a last resort.

Summary

Customs Officer Suspended

The shooter’s father, a customs officer and port security commander, was suspended after his agency-issued firearms were used in the school attack.
Customs officials said the student used a .40-caliber Bureau of Customs pistol issued to his father and a firearm owned by the father.
Police spokesperson Shella Chang said investigators are tracing the weapons’ ownership and entry, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered a thorough investigation and preventive measures.

History

Historical Context

Republic Act 10591, enacted in May 2013, required background checks for about 1.2 million Filipino gun owners and limited civilian calibers to .45 inches. The August 18 2026 school shooting, carried out with a .40-caliber Customs pistol owned by Juan Angara, prompted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and DILG chief Jonvic Remulla to order a PNP investigation, highlighting ongoing enforcement gaps since the law’s passage.

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Philippines Issues Protocols

The Philippines issued new school-violence protocols on Aug 18, 2026 after the Ateneo de Zamboanga University shooting.
The Cybercrime Investigation Center is monitoring footage and working with Meta to remove it.
Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara warned that students hide knives in shoes, underwear or tumblers.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla will forensic-examine the shooter’s devices.
PUERSA reiterated the Run-Hide-Fight protocol, urging people to run, hide or fight as a last resort.

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