The Philippine Army is now conducting a thorough investigation into how a military-issued handgun ended up at the hands of a 16-year old student whose plan to sneak the firearm into his school was foiled in South Cotabato on July 7.

Army spokesman Col. Louie G. Dema-ala vowed to pursue appropriate action against its personnel who would be found liable for negligence in relation to the conditions set for gun ownership.

In this case, the initial investigation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed that the Army-issued Glock 17 9mm pistol with two magazines loaded with 32 rounds of bullets, was issued to a soldier who turned out to be the minor’s elder brother

“The Philippine Army will thoroughly look into this incident and will not tolerate any negligence on the part of its personnel in the handling and accountability of issued firearms,” said Dema-ala.

“We take this matter seriously and will conduct an internal comprehensive investigation in accordance with existing policies governing individual responsibility over issued weapons,” he added.

On July 7, police intercepted the boy after a local government employee spotted him carrying what appears to be a handgun along the National Highway of the province. 

A patrol team immediately responded and intercepted the student before he reached the school.

Authorities said the minor took the pistol without his brother's knowledge or consent. The student later told investigators he brought the firearm for self-defense.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the quick police response prevented any untoward incident that may have happened.

“The swift response of our personnel prevented a potentially dangerous situation from unfolding inside the school. This incident reminds us that school safety requires constant vigilance from both law enforcement and the community,” Nartatez said.

He said the incident underscores the importance of strong cooperation between the police and the community in keeping schools safe following the tragic June 22 shooting at a school in Tacloban City.

“The timely report from a concerned citizen made all the difference. It shows that public vigilance and immediate reporting can help prevent incidents before lives are put at risk,” Nartatez said.

The boy was referred to the Women and Children Protection Desk before being turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office while police prepared charges for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.