The Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) reported Monday that it logged 19 school-targeted threats across 15 local government units in the province between July and September.

According to CPPO data, the incidents were spread across several jurisdictions: Talisay City recorded three threats, while Carcar City, Liloan, and San Fernando logged two each. Single incidents were reported in Argao, Bantayan, Barili, Bogo City, Carmen, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao City, Pinamungajan and San Remigio.

Police authorities identified 13 suspects in connection with the 19 reported incidents, bringing them to local police stations for questioning and formal investigation.

Law enforcers noted that several threats appeared to be pranks orchestrated by students attempting to avoid scheduled examinations, academic assignments, or regular classes.

In response to the surge in disruptions, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order 35, establishing the Cebu Safe Schools Program — a provincewide framework designed to strengthen violence prevention, emergency preparedness and mental health support.

The program focuses on three core pillars: enhanced security through increased police presence and campus inspections, preventative measures involving mental health resources and school-community coordination and targeted intervention to address the root causes of threatening behavior among minors.