Charges Filed Against 15-Year-Old; 14-Year-Old to Enter Intervention Program After Tacloban School Shooting

Authorities filed criminal complaints on June 23 against a 15-year-old suspect in the June 22 shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. Rappler reported that the Tacloban City Police Office confirmed the filings before the Tacloban City Prosecutor’s Office.

Police Lieutenant Evalyn Diaz, the TCPO public information officer, said the complaints included three counts of murder, three counts of frustrated murder, and multiple counts of serious physical injuries.

The 15-year-old suspect is scheduled to face inquest proceedings, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla told Rappler. The shooting killed three students and wounded 15 others by gunfire, while five additional people sustained non-gunshot injuries. Both the 15-year-old and a 14-year-old suspect remain in the custody of the Tacloban City Social Welfare and Development Office.

The 14-year-old suspect will undergo an intervention program, Diaz stated. Under Republic Act No. 9344, minors 15 and under are exempt from criminal liability but subject to intervention, while those over 15 but under 18 face liability only if they acted with discernment.

Initial police investigation found that the 14-year-old used a 9mm Glock 17 pistol belonging to her aunt, a non-commissioned police officer who has since been relieved of duties. 38 caliber revolver owned by a Cebu City-based security agency. The Philippine National Police in Eastern Visayas increased police visibility and patrol operations after the incident and strengthened coordination with local stakeholders.

The Department of Education in Tacloban City ordered stricter enforcement of school entrance and security protocols.