CHR says minor shooters must get juvenile justice protections

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

The Commission on Human Rights called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City here that killed three students on June 22, while stressing that authorities must follow the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (Republic Act No. 9344) in handling the two minor suspects, aged 14 and 15.

The CHR deployed a team through its Regional Office VIII to conduct a motu proprio investigation into the incident, and said it will monitor the situation to ensure that the rights and dignity of all parties — including the victims, their families, and the suspects — are upheld throughout the legal and restorative processes.

The Commission extended condolences to the families of the three students who were killed and expressed hope for the swift recovery of those wounded.

The CHR said local government units, mandated under Republic Act No. 9344 to provide community-based interventions and support services for children in conflict with the law (CICL), must ensure that safeguards are fully observed and that such services are accessible where the children live.

The Commission also flagged two separate stabbing incidents at Cavite National High School and Bethel Academy of General Trias in Cavite within the past week, calling the pattern of school violence alarming. Its Regional Office IV-A is conducting a motu proprio investigation into those cases.

“Schools, serving as children’s second homes, are mandated to be zones of peace and primary sanctuaries for the realization of the right to education,” the CHR said. “Any act of violence within these premises is a direct assault on the fundamental rights of children to learn and thrive in a secure, nurturing environment.”

The Commission urged the State, the Department of Education, the Philippine National Police, and LGUs to review and strengthen school safety protocols and physical security measures while ensuring schools do not become militarized environments.

It also called for an audit of child protection law implementation — including Republic Act No. 9344 and the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 (Republic Act No. 10627) — and for expanded mental health and guidance counseling services that do not expose students to stigma or discrimination.

The CHR further called for a thorough investigation into the source of and access to the firearms used in the shooting, saying accountability must extend to any administrative or security lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy.

The Commission appealed to media and the public to refrain from sharing photographs or information that could identify the children involved — whether victims or CICL — in line with child protection and privacy standards.

“The CHR reminds all sectors that accountability, child protection, and the pursuit of justice are not mutually exclusive,” the Commission said. “As the nation mourns this heartbreaking loss, we call on all concerned institutions to respond with urgency, compassion, and fidelity to human rights principles.”