Education Secretary Sonny Angara has warned that students found responsible for making school threats in the Philippines may face severe disciplinary and legal consequences, including suspension, dismissal, or expulsion, as well as possible criminal charges.

Speaking during the EdConnect Higher Education EdTech Summit 2026 in Quezon City, Angara stressed that the Department of Education is treating all reported threats seriously, especially following recent incidents in schools in Batangas and Bagong Silangan High School in Quezon City.He emphasized that authorities cannot risk ignoring such threats, as they could endanger students and disrupt school operations.Angara also noted that those who issue false or malicious threats may be held administratively and criminally liable under existing laws.

In response to growing concerns, the DepEd is strengthening safety protocols in schools, which include increased police visibility, deployment of additional security guards, installation of metal detectors, improved perimeter fencing, and wider use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.These measures aim to deter both real and hoax threats.

The education chief also acknowledged that DepEd has limited capacity to monitor coordinated online activities and has sought assistance from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

He raised concerns about online platforms being used to recruit or manipulate children, urging parents to closely monitor their children's internet usage and screen time.Angara highlighted that many interactions occur outside school supervision, making parental guidance crucial.

The statement comes amid several recent violent and alarming incidents in schools, including a fatal shooting in Tacloban City, a stabbing incident in Zamboanga City, and a false online threat that caused panic in Quezon City schools.Authorities continue to coordinate efforts to enhance school safety nationwide.