THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a stern warning against making online threats or sharing alarming social media content, reminding the public that digital posts carry serious real-world legal consequences.
The reminder, issued under the direction of PNP Chief General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., follows prompt police interventions in two separate social media threat incidents involving students in Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.
In Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, police responded early Monday, September 21, to a report from a school teacher regarding Facebook posts threatening a shooting incident at Kapingkong National High School.
The posts allegedly displayed images of firearms. Authorities, alongside municipal social welfare officers and local barangay officials, identified a 13-year-old student linked to the account.
The minor was turned over to guardians for counseling and support under social welfare supervision.
In a separate operation in Tupi, South Cotabato, police arrested an 18-year-old student on September 20 after receiving reports of an individual posting photographs on social media while posing with a firearm.
Officers recovered a mobile phone believed to have been used to upload the content, which will be submitted to the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 12 for digital forensic analysis.
A formal complaint for Alarm and Scandal is currently being prepared for filing with the prosecutor’s office.
PNP Chief Nartatez emphasized that law enforcement treats all credible digital threats seriously to protect public safety, particularly within school communities, while ensuring proper legal procedures and minor welfare protocols are upheld.
“Let this be a reminder that social media is not a place to make threats or create fear,” General Nartatez said. “Kahit online ginawa ang isang post, hindi ibig sabihin na wala itong epekto sa totoong buhay. We will take credible reports seriously, verify the facts, and respond accordingly.”
The PNP urged parents, educators, and community leaders to actively guide youth on responsible digital citizenship, while advising the public to report genuine threats to authorities rather than sharing unverified posts online.
