“Gaps in firearm safekeeping and accountability allowed unauthorized access to the firearms used, while security deficiencies in the school, particularly in entry and exit screening, contributed to the circumstances of the incident,” the PNP said.
“With these findings, a complaint for Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide and Physical Injury was filed before the proper prosecutorial authority against the registered owner of the firearms used in the incident and a school security personnel,” the PNP said in a report.
The two firearms used by the teenage gunman—a caliber .40 pistol and a caliber 9mm pistol—were registered to his father, a Bureau of Customs (BOC) official who has since been relieved from his post. One was a BOC service firearm entrusted to the father, while the other was his personally owned firearm.
Investigators also found that the teenager had been exposed to violent content online and had made preparations before carrying out the attack.
However, the PNP said it found no evidence that the shooting was part of a conspiracy involving any group, organization, or other individuals. Investigators also found no established school-related or personal grievance that could sufficiently explain the incident.
The August 18 shooting left two students dead, including the gunman, and injured several others.
As the investigation concluded, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. reminded firearm owners to exercise greater care in securing their weapons.
Nartatez also urged schools and security personnel to regularly review access controls and screening procedures, while encouraging parents and the public to promptly report threats, violent behavior, or other warning signs.
