The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered its Anti-Cybercrime Group to collaborate with social media networks to take down or restrict graphic footage of recent school stabbings and shootings in Cavite and Tacloban City.
Authorities warned that the viral spread of these videos inflicts deeper psychological trauma on the victims and their families.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. raised serious alarms over the viral clips, emphasizing that online circulation requires immediate law enforcement action.
“The reckless circulation of graphic videos depicting these school tragedies is not just a digital nuisance, it is a profound act of cruelty that re-victimizes survivors and forces grieving families to relive their worst nightmares repeatedly,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Aside from seeking content take-downs, the PNP chief directed police forces across the country to partner with academic institutions, parents, and youth leaders to advocate for responsible digital behavior, particularly when dealing with tragedies involving minors.
Nartatez stressed the vital importance of protecting traumatized children from internet harassment and public exposure.
“We ask the public and the media to refrain from sharing identifying photos or personal details of the children involved. Let us respond with urgency, compassion, and respect for human rights,” he said.
The police directive follows a wave of school tragedies that occurred within the month:
- June 16: A Grade 8 student allegedly stabbed and wounded seven Grade 5 students in General Trias City, Cavite.
- June 19: Another student suffered injuries in a separate stabbing incident in Cavite City.
- June 23: A fatal shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City left three students dead and multiple others injured after two teens, aged 14 and 15, allegedly opened fire.
The PNP concluded that ensuring the safety of children must extend past physical protection to encompass the preservation of their privacy and dignity during the healing process.