Teenager with Army-issued handgun stopped from entering Philippine school

Police in Tupi, South Cotabato, successfully intercepted a 16-year-old student who was attempting to enter his school while carrying an Army-issued handgun. The incident occurred on July 7 along the National Highway in Barangay Poblacion when a government employee tipped off authorities. A patrol team stopped the teenager before he reached the campus and recovered a Glock 17 9mm pistol with two magazines loaded with 32 rounds. The firearm was identified as the service weapon of the student's older brother, an active member of the Philippine Army assigned to the 6th Infantry Battalion, 6th Infantry Division. Authorities stated that the minor took the firearm without his brother's knowledge or consent, claiming he brought it for self-defense. The student was subsequently referred to the Women and Children Protection Desk and turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. Police are preparing charges for violation of Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. credited the tip from the local government employee, stating, "The swift response of our personnel prevented a potentially dangerous situation from unfolding inside the school. This incident reminds us that school safety requires constant vigilance from both law enforcement and the community." The Philippine Army has announced it will conduct a thorough investigation into how a soldier's issued firearm ended up in the hands of a teenager. Army spokesperson Col. Louie G. Dema-ala said, "The Philippine Army will thoroughly look into this incident and will not tolerate any negligence on the part of its personnel in the handling and accountability of issued firearms." This incident follows a school shooting in Tacloban City just two weeks prior, raising further concerns about school safety.