Students who posted threats in Talisay, Cebu wanted to avoid exam

Authorities have identified the minor students who made security threats against two schools in Talisay City, Cebu.

The Talisay City National High School received a shooting threat on July 5, 2026 while another school received the same threat the day after.

Following investigation, the police said the students are 12 and 13 years old.

The two reportedly admitted to posting the threat on social media, said Lt. Col. Homobuno Romero Sayson, chief of the Talisay City Police Station.

“Sa atong pag-imbestiga, atong gitan-aw tong post ug katong mga nag-react sa post ug nag-comment, and then, fortunately, we were able to trace katong mga nag-react and sa atong pag-interview, nag-angkon sa nga sila maoy nag-post,” he said.

The students reportedly said they made the threats so that classes would be suspended because they were not able to prepare for their exam.

“Kay schedule kuno exam anang pagkasunod adlaw,” Sayson said.

The two students from Talisay, along with the student from Carcar City who was found with a pocket knife outside a school, were called for a conversation with Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro on July 13.

At the capitol, the governor spoke with the minors and their parents. She gave the students pieces of advice on how they can work for a good future.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has started the intervention program for the three minors.

Following the incident, Talisay City National High School has tightened its security and has monitored those entering and school strictly.

The school also decided to let its students use only transparent pens so that no sharp object can be hidden inside.

Teachers have also taken custody of school supplies that are sharp like scissors and cutters owned by students. They will give these items back only when needed like during classroom activities.

“Gipakolekta dayon nako sa akong mga teachers ang tanan nga mahait nga butang sama sa gunting, cutter, compass ug unsay pay mahait nga butang… unya gipa-inspection sad nako ang ilang mga ballpens. Kinahanglan ang ballpens transparent,” said Jeditho Dela Cuesta, Principal of Talisay City National High School.

Cops in the city will also pay the school a visit every now and then.

Sayson advised parents to always monitor their children’s activities.

“I-monitor ang ilang activity… i-monitor, including ilang circle of friends then kung naa tay kadudahan nga gibuhat sa atong anak, pwede ta makig-coordinate diha sa atong mga GAD (Gender and Development) focal sa atong barangay,” Sayson said. —Fe Marie Dumaboc, GMA Regional TV News