The Department of the Interior and Local Government is seeking tighter access to social media for children following the shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said an initial investigation showed that the 14-year-old student identified as the alleged gunman had exposure to the “deep dark web.” He did not identify the specific website but said the online exposure may have influenced the minor.
Investigators also reportedly found notes on the suspect’s cellphone concerning his depression. According to the report, the notes were first discovered by his parents in April.
Remulla said he would meet with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to discuss measures addressing children’s exposure to potentially dangerous online content.
He also plans to ask Congress to study possible limits on children’s use of social media, citing Australia as an example.
Remulla also said the firearm used in the shooting belonged to the suspect’s father, who works as a Disaster Risk Mitigation Officer at the Department of Education.
The father reportedly owned three licensed firearms, but Remulla said the firearm used in the incident was not properly secured, allowing the child to access it.
Three students died in the incident, including two Grade 9 students and the alleged gunman, according to the report.
Eight others were injured. Two remained in serious condition, while six were reported to be in stable condition.
Remulla and the Philippine National Police expressed condolences to the families of those who died.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.
