Planned Leyte school attack foiled

Authorities foiled a planned school attack in Leyte after Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla received a tip from Senator Bam Aquino about a student allegedly plotting violence at Tolosa National High School.

Remulla said Aquino relayed the information after an informant in Tacloban reported that a student was planning a mass shooting or stabbing targeting classmates. Aquino had earlier visited San Jose National High School, where a June 22 shooting left three students dead.

A background check identified a 14-year-old girl who had created multiple social media accounts and posted threats against her school. Although the accounts were deleted, authorities recovered a message warning that an attack could happen “any time and any day.”

“We are still debriefing her on what really is her intent,” Remulla said, noting that the threat, posted on June 24, may be linked to family issues.

The student will not face charges. Instead, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided counseling to her and her family. Authorities also confirmed she had no access to firearms.

“Following engagement with her family along with investigation, the threat appears to be neutralized and inactive,” Remulla said.

In response, Remulla called for a comprehensive review of Republic Act 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, citing concerns over minors being exploited by criminal groups.

“I strongly recommend to Congress that we work together to come up with a more comprehensive law on juvenile justice,” he said. “I think age is not important, but cognizance and intent are the most important factors.”

He also urged the public to report threats online. “Kung may makita po kayo na kahit anong threat or imminent threat… mass shooting or violence… please call 911 and inform authorities right away,” he said.

Aquino welcomed the swift action, saying, “Agad naming binahagi ang impormasyon kay DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla at agarang din niyang inimbestigahan at inaksyunan.”

He added that the incident highlights the need for stronger school protections, pushing for a School Safety Act, a review of juvenile justice laws, and possible restrictions on social media access for children under 15.