Two minors, who beat up a schoolmate for refusing to smoke them, were taught of the lesson that there will always be people tougher than them after they were held over a case of bullying in a high school in Basilan that went viral on social media.

Gen. Nicolas Torre III, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said the two minors, who turned out to have some “behavioral issues” in the past, actually did not go home and went into hiding instead after the video of the bullying went viral.

But Torre said his men at the Isabela City Police Station (ICPS) were able to locate and place them under the custody of a Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) Center, in compliance with the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

“The safety of our children will always be a priority for the Philippine National Police. We will never tolerate any form of abuse or violence, especially in schools—places that should be safe for every student. Bullying isn't just a school issue; it concerns all of us,” said Tuaño.

.”We thank the concerned citizen who shared the video, which helped us act quickly. The PNP stands firm in its commitment to intervene, protect, and educate—so that no child suffers in silence,” he added.

PNP chief information officer Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the bullying happened on June 26 but it was only on July 4 when the formal complaint was lodged since the father had to attend to his bullied son in the hospital.

According to Tuaño, the two minors beat the victim near the school’s comfort room. The suspects allegedly tried to pressure the victim into smoking, and when he refused, they beat him—punching, kicking, and slamming his head against the wall.

One of them reportedly pulled out a knife and threatened to stab the boy.

Following the filing of the complaint, Tuaño said the local police conducted an immediate ocular inspection of the incident site and coordinated with the school’s guidance office.

“Both the victim’s and the suspects’ parents or guardians were informed and scheduled for a case conference, in accordance with the Department of Education's Child Protection Policy,” said Tuaño.

The official said the local police, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the school, facilitated counseling services for the victim and initiated intervention programs for the suspects.

Tuaño said a case conference with the parents, guidance counselors, and homeroom advisers was also recommended to ensure both legal and psychosocial support are provided.

He said the local police are currently finalizing the necessary documentation for the filing of appropriate charges.