Philippine national police: Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has instructed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to collaborate with social media companies to remove all photos and videos of the August 18 shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University junior high school campus. The shooting was live-streamed by the minor involved in the incident.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gen. Nartatez emphasized the importance of preventing the further spread of the content to protect minors from accessing and sharing it. He stated that the incident should be handled with sensitivity, urging netizens to act responsibly and respect the tragedy by not reposting the videos or photos. Such materials, he noted, could exacerbate distress among victims and their families and might interfere with ongoing investigations.

He further elaborated that the PNP-ACG, along with other units, has been tasked to monitor and report the online circulation of sensitive videos as part of a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to enhance public safety measures.

In response to the shooting, police units were dispatched to the school to investigate and clarify the sequence of events. A significant focus of the investigation is determining how the minor managed to bring two firearms into the school. Gen. Nartatez highlighted the need for a comprehensive investigation to uncover all factors that led to the attack.

The PNP is collaborating with the Department of Education to develop strategies ensuring the safety of educational institutions nationwide.

Another critical facet of the investigation pertains to responsible gun ownership. Gen. Nartatez advocated for stricter measures to prevent firearms from becoming accessible to minors. The PNP plans to introduce additional safety protocols for those applying or renewing firearms permits, which will include a focus on secure storage of firearms and ammunition. A comprehensive gun safety seminar may become a mandatory requirement for obtaining or renewing a License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF).

Gen. Nartatez acknowledged that gun-related incidents, especially involving minors, often stem from firearm accessibility, which the PNP is committed to addressing. The PNP, through its Firearms and Explosives Office, is the Philippines' sole authority for issuing gun licenses, permits, and registrations under Republic Act 10591.