The Tacloban City Prosecutor’s Office has recommended the filing of charges against police officer Arla Ray Pacencia, the registered owner of the firearm used in the deadly shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.
DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez said the prosecutor’s office on Aug. 20, 2026 recommended the filing of charges for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide and physical injuries against Pacencia.
“The corresponding Information will be filed with the Family Court, Regional Trial Court of Tacloban City,” Martinez said.
The recommendation stemmed from a preliminary investigation into a complaint filed by parents and students of San Jose National High School following the shooting involving a child in conflict with the law.
The DOJ said the criminal case will proceed in accordance with due process.
A child in conflict with the law refers to a person below 18 years old who is accused of committing an offense under Philippine law.
Pacencia, the aunt of one of the alleged minor suspects, earlier told a Senate hearing that the minor, identified only as alias “Nash,” unlawfully entered her house and forcibly damaged her locker.
“My house was locked as well,” Pacencia said.
The minor allegedly used Pacencia’s firearm in the school shooting.
The Aug. 2026 incident at San Jose National High School left three teenagers dead and 13 others injured.
Two Grade 9 students, aged 14 and 15, allegedly opened fire inside the school.#