Cops probe online ‘death threat’ against school

CEBU, Philippines — Police are investigating an alleged death threat posted on Facebook against students of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF)–Lahug Campus on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026.

The alleged threat prompted personnel from Mabolo Police Station 4 to proceed to the school to verify the report and determine whether there was a possible security concern within the campus.

Police personnel arrived at the USPF–Lahug Campus at around 12:56 p.m., led by Deputy Station Commander PMAJ Jerric Allan M. Arellano under the supervision of Station Commander PMAJ Thom Ed L. Taghoy II.

The police response traced the Facebook post that reportedly contained a threat to “kill students of the university”. However, the person identified as the account owner later publicly denied making the threatening post.

The account owner claimed that his Facebook profile had been hacked or compromised by an unidentified person, and that he was not responsible for the content that appeared on the account.

Mabolo police, however, continued their investigation despite the denial.

Instead, personnel continued their verification procedures to establish whether the post was authentic, determine its source, and clarify the circumstances surrounding its publication.

Police are also coordinating with the USPF administration as part of efforts to assess the situation and maintain security within the campus.

The coordination covers measures intended to ensure the safety of students, faculty members, school personnel, and other members of the school community while the investigation is ongoing.

The police station is also coordinating with concerned police units on necessary security measures and appropriate police action based on the results of the verification.

Authorities reminded the public to remain calm while the investigation continues and warned against unverified circulating social media posts.

They also urged the public to immediately report suspicious or threatening online content to the proper authorities rather than sharing it further.

Mabolo police said they will continue responding to information that threatens the public safety and will maintain coordination with the school to help ensure the security of the USPF community. —  (IHM) (CEBU NEWS)