The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, reminded educational institutions nationwide to strictly implement internal security measures to ensure the safety of students. This reminder came after a 14-year-old Grade 8 student allegedly attacked younger pupils inside a private school in General Trias City, Cavite, on Tuesday, June 16.
PNP Chief Expresses Concern
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that schools should always be safe spaces for learning and development. In a statement, he said, "I am deeply concerned by this incident because schools should always be safe spaces for learning and development."
Details of the Attack
According to police reports, the teenage suspect entered a Grade 5 classroom carrying a kitchen knife and allegedly stabbed several pupils, leaving seven students with severe injuries. Authorities later reported that the victims were in stable condition. Initial findings revealed that teachers were attending a meeting when the incident occurred, leaving the classroom temporarily unattended.
Nartatez directed the Cavite Provincial Police Office and the Police Regional Office 4A to conduct a thorough investigation into the attack. He also ordered local police units to increase visibility in and around school premises to deter potential threats and reassure students, parents, and school personnel.
PNP Assures Public
"We sympathize with the victims and their families, and we assure the public that the PNP is taking this matter seriously. Violence inside educational institutions is unacceptable, and we will work closely with school authorities and local government officials to prevent similar incidents from happening again," Nartatez said.
Meanwhile, the 14-year-old suspect was turned over to local social welfare authorities for appropriate medical and psychological assessment, in accordance with existing laws governing minors in conflict with the law.
Call for Stricter Security
Investigators are continuing to determine how the weapon was able to pass through school security undetected. This development has prompted renewed calls for stricter campus screening procedures and enhanced safety protocols in educational institutions across the country. The PNP reiterated its appeal for schools to review and strengthen their security systems, emphasizing that protecting students remains a shared responsibility among school administrators, law enforcement agencies, local governments, and the broader community.
