Online school threats in Samar unsubstantiated, cops say

TACLOBAN CITY—Online threats gripping schools in Sta. Margarita, Samar, are unsubstantiated, police said, as school officials assured parents and students that classes would continue amid school security concerns.

In a statement, the Sta. Margarita Municipal Police Station said it conducted verification, investigation, and cyber-monitoring activities after online messages threatening schools in the municipality circulated on Monday, raising alarm among students, parents, teachers, and the community.

Police said it has identified the individual associated with the account that posted the threats and is undergoing appropriate intervention through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

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READ: Online threats put Eastern Samar, Samar schools on heightened alert

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Provincial and municipal police personnel investigated with school administrators, faculty representatives, and barangay officials to determine the credibility of the reported threats and address possible security concerns.

And in a separate advisory, the Clarencio Calagos Memorial School of Fisheries in Sta. Margarita acknowledged the apprehension caused by the incident, assuring parents, learners, and school personnel that their safety and well-being remained its top priority.

The school said it had coordinated with the Philippine National Police, the Schools Division Office, the local government unit, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to seek assistance in addressing the security concerns.

It urged parents to monitor their children, remind them to observe safety precautions, and promptly report suspicious activities or information that could help authorities protect the school community.

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The school also appealed to the public to refrain from sharing unverified information that could cause unnecessary fear and anxiety.

As of its latest advisory, classes would continue as scheduled, with no suspension ordered. The school said it would inform the community through its official communication channels of any significant developments or changes.

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The police likewise urged residents to remain calm and vigilant and to report suspicious messages or activities to the proper authorities.

The threats in Samar came amid heightened public concern over school security following a shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City on June 22 that left three students dead, three others seriously wounded, and 20 more injured. The shooting was perpetrated by minor students of the same school who are now under the custody of the DSWD.

READ: School shooting kills 3 students in Tacloban

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Similar incidents were also reported in Zamboanga City and Banga, South Cotabato./coa