PRO-6 urges responsible social media use amid school threats

ILOILO CITY — Amid threats targeting schools and students, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 urged greater digital awareness and responsible online behavior among students, parents, teachers and the public.

PRO-6 issued the statement following separate school-related incidents in Antique and Capiz involving online messages that raised security concerns.

In the reported incidents, police immediately coordinated with concerned schools, parents, local government units, social welfare offices and other agencies to assess the circumstances, ensure the safety of students and school personnel, and provide necessary intervention.

Recently, several schools in Roxas City, Capiz, suspended in-person classes following a viral social media threat concerning campus safety.

Reports pointed to an online post and circulating video claiming that a potential shooting or violent incident might occur on a high school campus.

An investigation, however, showed that the viral video depicting a student holding a toy firearm was a prank recorded in June 2025.

The minor shown in the video, accompanied by his father, has already appeared at the Roxas City Police Station and clarified the incident.

PRO-6 emphasized that each incident is being handled based on its own circumstances and that appropriate procedures must be observed, particularly when minors are involved.

The regional police office also stressed the importance of exercising care and responsibility when using social media, messaging applications and other online platforms.

Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, Western Visayas police chief, noted that messages posted or shared online can spread quickly and may cause unnecessary fear, concern or confusion when taken out of context or circulated without proper verification.

“Social media is already part of the daily lives of our young people. With this comes the responsibility to think carefully before posting, sharing, or forwarding anything that may cause fear or alarm. Words shared online can have consequences regardless of the sender’s intent,” Tuaño said.

He encouraged students to refrain from posting, repeating or sharing messages that may cause fear, alarm or concern.

Tuaño also urged students to immediately inform a parent, teacher, school official or law enforcement authority whenever they encounter disturbing or suspicious online content.

“Our message to our students is simple: be responsible with what you post and share. if you encounter something concerning, do not spread it further. report it to a trusted adult or proper authority so that it can be assessed appropriately,” he added.

Tuaño also urged parents and teachers to maintain open communication with children about their online activities and continue guiding them on responsible digital behavior.

The public was also reminded to verify information before sharing it, protect personal and sensitive information, and report security concerns through proper channels.

“These situations underscore the importance of early reporting and close coordination among schools, families, local authorities, social welfare offices, and the police. Our priority is to ensure safety while addressing every concern responsibly and appropriately,” Tuaño said.

PRO-6 said it continues to strengthen preventive and community-based initiatives supporting safer schools and communities through awareness, coordination and timely police response.