MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has relieved the father of the alleged gunman in the shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School to allow an impartial investigation into how the firearms used in the incident were obtained.

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno confirmed that the father was the district commander of the Port of Zamboanga Enforcement and Security Services.

Nepomuceno clarified that the official had no direct involvement in the shooting, but said he was relieved from his post to determine whether there was negligence in the handling and safekeeping of his issued firearms.

“Wala naman siyang direktang kinalaman doon sa pagbaril sa kanyang anak. Sigurado, malaking trahedya ito sa kanilang pamilya,” Nepomuceno said.

“But we need to relieve him from his post so there can be an impartial investigation as to whether there was negligence in his handling of his firearm,” he added.

The alleged gunman, a Grade 9 student, reportedly used a pistol and a rifle during the attack Tuesday morning, killing a Grade 10 student, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Nepomuceno said Customs personnel were attempting to reach the relieved official to coordinate with him as part of the investigation.

“May accountability kung sino ang inisyuhan ng baril,” the BOC chief said, noting that personnel issued firearms are accountable for them.

He said Customs personnel undergo training on the proper handling and safekeeping of firearms in the office, during missions, in the field and at home.

Nepomuceno also said he had ordered a thorough review of the BOC’s firearm-issuance system about two months ago as part of efforts to strengthen gun-safety protocols.

Two dead in school shooting

The shooting occurred at the Junior High School campus of Ateneo de Zamboanga University, where hundreds of students were evacuated following the incident.

Authorities said the alleged gunman also died, bringing the reported death toll to two. Two other people were injured.

Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso said the suspect appeared to have been wearing a body camera that may have been used to livestream the attack.

Police said the situation was brought under control within hours and urged parents and guardians to remain calm and follow the school’s instructions for the safe retrieval of students.

National police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities were establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident and urged the public not to circulate unverified reports, photographs or videos.

Marcos orders investigation

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting and determine measures to prevent similar incidents.

“We grieve with the families and the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga community over a tragedy that should never have happened,” Marcos said.

He said schools should remain safe places where students can learn, grow and pursue their aspirations without fear.

Marcos also directed authorities to work with schools and communities to strengthen safeguards for students.