2 Cebu students face gun possession, shooting threat charges
CEBU CITY – Authorities took custody of two students in separate cases involving school security in Cebu.
In Pinamungajan, a 14‑year‑old student was found carrying a firearm while attending classes on Thursday afternoon, Aug. 20.
Police said a class adviser discovered an unloaded .357 Smith & Wesson Magnum revolver during a surprise inspection at Lut‑od National High School in Barangay Lut‑od.
The school immediately contacted the Pinamungajan Municipal Police Station.
The firearm, found inside the student’s bag, was later traced to the student’s grandfather, who had kept it in a cabinet.
The student was turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.
“This incident demonstrates the importance of vigilance and proactive safety measures inside our schools. We commend the school personnel for immediately reporting the discovery and seeking police assistance. Their prompt action helped ensure that the situation was contained before it could potentially lead to harm,” said Col. Abubakar Udang Mangelen Jr., chief of the Cebu Provincial Police Office.
In a separate incident, a 21‑year‑old student of Bantayan National High School was arrested after allegedly threatening to carry out a mass shooting.
Police said the suspect used a dummy Facebook account named “Justin Rodriguez” to send the threat through a private message, showing a photo of a firearm and five bullets.
Teachers sought police help, and authorities immediately secured the school.
The suspect, a resident of Barangay Bantigue, Bantayan, was later linked to the account. Police said charges for grave threats and unjust vexation will be filed.