TUPI, South Cotabato — A 16-year-old Grade 8 student of Tupi National High School was apprehended by authorities after allegedly being found carrying a loaded 9mm pistol near the school premises on Tuesday afternoon, July 7, prompting heightened security measures and renewed concerns over student safety and youth access to firearms.
The incident occurred at around 4:00 p.m. after police received information that a student was carrying a firearm. Acting swiftly on the report, personnel of the Tupi Municipal Police Station located and apprehended the minor in Barangay Poblacion, just outside the public high school.
Authorities recovered a 9mm Glock pistol from the student, who was immediately taken into custody. Because the suspect is a minor, he was later turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for the appropriate intervention and disposition in accordance with juvenile justice laws.
Student Claims Firearm Was for Self-Defense
In an interview following his apprehension, the student claimed he carried the firearm solely for self-defense.
According to the minor, he had been experiencing conflicts with fellow students whom he alleged were carrying bladed weapons. He said he feared for his safety and decided to bring the pistol as protection.
The student also claimed that the firearm belonged to his older brother, whom he identified as a member of the military. However, another account cited by local officials indicated the firearm may belong to the student’s uncle, an active-duty soldier assigned in Maguindanao. Authorities have yet to officially determine the firearm’s registered owner.
Police are continuing their investigation to establish how the minor gained access to the weapon and whether any laws concerning firearm custody and safekeeping may have been violated.
School Clarifies Student Was Apprehended Outside Campus
Tupi National High School Principal VI Benny Toribio clarified that the student was not arrested inside the school premises, contrary to some initial reports.
Toribio confirmed that the suspect is indeed a Grade 8 student of the school but emphasized that the apprehension occurred outside the campus.
He said school CCTV footage showed that the student appeared to be planning to enter the campus. However, due to the school’s existing security measures, he was unable to proceed inside.
The principal added that the school administration is reviewing and strengthening its security protocols to further ensure the safety of students, teachers, and personnel.
School officials are likewise awaiting the results of the police investigation, particularly regarding the ownership and source of the firearm.
Mayor: Bullying May Have Contributed
Tupi Mayor Romeo S. Tamayo said initial information suggests the student may have been a victim of bullying, which could have influenced his decision to carry a firearm.
According to the mayor, the student had allegedly been repeatedly teased and harassed by several individuals in the area, prompting him to arm himself.
While acknowledging the reported bullying, Mayor Tamayo stressed that bringing a firearm near a school cannot be justified and reaffirmed that public safety remains the municipal government’s highest priority.
Municipality Tightens School Security
Following the incident, Mayor Tamayo issued an official statement assuring residents that the local government has ordered stricter security measures around schools throughout the municipality.
He said authorities have been instructed to intensify monitoring of school entrances and surrounding areas in coordination with the Tupi Municipal Police Station to prevent similar incidents.
The mayor also appealed to parents, teachers, students, and community members to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities or the possession of weapons.
“Our schools must remain safe places where young people can learn and grow without fear,” Tamayo emphasized.
Community Cooperation Credited
Authorities credited the immediate coordination among school officials, residents, and law enforcement for the swift response that prevented the firearm from being brought inside the school campus.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of early reporting, strong school security, responsible firearm ownership, and addressing issues such as bullying before they escalate into potentially dangerous situations.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, including the firearm’s ownership, how it came into the possession of the minor, and whether additional charges may be filed against any responsible adult. Meanwhile, social workers are expected to conduct interventions aimed at addressing the welfare and rehabilitation needs of the student while ensuring the protection of his legal rights as a minor.