MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has filed criminal complaints against the father of the student involved in the fatal shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) Junior High School and a school security personnel over lapses identified in the Aug. 18 incident.

The father, a customs police officer, was the registered owner of the two firearms used in the shooting, while the security personnel was held accountable for lapses in school safety protocols, the PNP said Thursday.

The shooting killed a Grade 10 student and wounded another before the shooter took his own life.

According to the PNP, the Police Regional Office 9-led Special Investigation Task Group found no evidence that the incident was part of a conspiracy involving any group, organization, or other individuals.

Investigators likewise found no established school-related or personal grievance that could sufficiently explain the shooting.

“The investigation, however, identified prior preparation and exposure to violent online material as among the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the PNP said.

The investigation also found deficiencies in firearm safekeeping and accountability that allowed unauthorized access to the weapons used in the shooting.

Gaps in the school’s security measures, particularly in screening people entering and leaving the campus, were also identified as contributing factors.

The PNP said a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and physical injury was filed before the appropriate prosecutorial authority against the firearm owner and the school security personnel.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the investigation sought to establish the facts while ensuring that those potentially accountable are afforded due process.

“We owe it to the families and to the school community to get the facts right. Hindi puwedeng puro assumptions (Mere assumptions are not acceptable). We follow the evidence, respect due process, and let the proper legal process determine accountability. At the same time, we have to learn from what happened and close the gaps that may put others at risk,” Nartatez said.

Nartatez also urged firearm owners to strengthen the security of their weapons and called on schools and security personnel to regularly review access controls and screening procedures.

He further encouraged parents and the public to report threats, violent behavior, or other warning signs that could pose a risk to the community./PNA