The Department of Justice (DOJ) has promised its complete backing to the families affected by the tragic school shooting in Tacloban City, specifically guiding them through the process of securing financial compensation.
According to DOJ Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato, the Regional Prosecution Office in Region VIII is actively guiding the families of the three deceased individuals and three wounded victims in submitting their applications to the Board of Claims.
This specialized DOJ unit is tasked with providing monetary relief to eligible victims of violent offenses.
“This underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that victims and their loved ones receive the assistance available under the law as criminal proceedings continue,” said Dato.
Dato further noted that the judicial process regarding the Tacloban shooting is moving forward. An inquest has already taken place at the Office of the City Prosecutor of Tacloban for a minor offender designated as “Rod.” The youth is currently facing three counts of murder alongside two counts of attempted murder.
Following this initial step, the suspect will undergo a standard preliminary investigation while being held at the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth in Region VIII.
Another 14-year-old minor involved in the incident, referred to as “Nash,” is also housed at the same regional youth rehabilitation facility under the supervision of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). He is currently undergoing specialized intervention programs tailored by social workers.
A petition for involuntary commitment was previously submitted with the help of the Public Attorney’s Office, though the duration and specifics of his rehabilitation will depend on future court rulings.
Separately, Dato revealed that the DOJ is examining primary and additional case referrals from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) concerning the fatalities of several Ateneo student-athletes.
The agency is looking into potential charges that could include homicide, violations of the Anti-Hazing Act, or reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, depending on what the evidence supports.
The Undersecretary emphasized that the DOJ will withhold the names of the suspects and details of the evidence while this evaluation remains underway.