The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered intensified cyberpatrols and coordination with social media platforms to take down photos and videos related to the 18 August shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Wednesday directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to strengthen coordination with social media platforms to prevent the further spread of sensitive content from the incident.

The attack was livestreamed by the minor who carried it out, prompting authorities to seek the removal of videos, screenshots and other related material, particularly to prevent their circulation among minors.

“This is an unfortunate incident that should be treated with utmost sensitivity, especially that there were minors involved in the content. Let us all be compassionate over this tragedy and it starts by showing respect and becoming responsible netizens,” Nartatez said.

“We appeal to everyone to refrain from sharing or reposting the videos and photos of the incident. These materials can cause further distress to the victims, their families and the public, and may also interfere with the ongoing investigation,” he added.

The PNP-ACG and other concerned units have been directed to monitor and report the circulation of sensitive material online.

Police teams were deployed to the university following the shooting Tuesday to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Nartatez said one focus of the investigation is determining how the minor was able to bring two firearms inside the school.

Investigators will also look beyond the attack itself to determine the circumstances that led to the incident and whether there are patterns that could help authorities prevent similar cases.

“We have to dig deeper into this matter, especially that this is not the first time that this tragedy happened. Our focus is to check if there’s a pattern or identify intervention measures to prevent the repeat of this kind of incident,” Nartatez said.

The investigation will also examine responsible gun ownership and possible accountability over firearms that become accessible to minors.

The PNP said it has been coordinating with the Department of Education on measures to strengthen security in schools and other learning spaces.