Biliran: Police in Biliran province have confiscated a caliber .38 revolver from an elementary school pupil in Almeria town, prompting authorities to strengthen coordination with schools and local stakeholders to prevent similar incidents.
According to Philippines News Agency, the firearm was recovered during a school visitation conducted by personnel of the Almeria municipal police at the Pulang Bato Elementary School at about 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday. The Biliran Provincial Police released a report on Thursday detailing the incident.
The responding officers were informed by the school principal that a pupil had allegedly been found in possession of a short firearm. The school principal immediately turned over the confiscated firearm - a caliber .38 revolver without ammunition - to the responding police officers for proper documentation and disposition.
Authorities sought the assistance of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of Almeria and coordinated with the barangay chairman, the school principal, and the child's parent. Following interviews, assessment, and counseling, the child was released to the parent for appropriate diversion proceedings in accordance with the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, which emphasizes rehabilitation and intervention for children in conflict with the law and children at risk.
Police did not disclose the identity or age of the child, in keeping with laws protecting the privacy of minors. "The confiscation of a firearm highlights the importance of sustained collaboration among law enforcement agencies, schools, parents, and local government units in ensuring the safety of learners and preventing firearms from reaching children," the Biliran Police stated.
The provincial police office also expressed their commitment to implementing the Safer Schools Initiative, which includes regular school visitations, strengthened coordination with school administrators and community leaders, and continuous engagement with stakeholders to promote a secure learning environment.
