Senator Erwin Tulfo urges stronger parenting, tighter gun rules after school violence incidents

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 24, 2026

Photo courtesy: Erwin Tulfo Fb Page/PNA

Senator Erwin Tulfo has called on parents and guardians across the Philippines to strengthen communication with their children, warning that reliance on technology alone is not enough to protect young people from violence.

The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development, issued the appeal in a statement on Sunday, Aug. 23, days after authorities recovered a firearm from the bag of a Grade 9 student in Pinamungajan, Cebu. Officials said the weapon belonged to the student’s grandfather.

The discovery came shortly after a shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) left two schoolchildren dead and nine others injured, intensifying public concern over student safety and access to firearms.

“It really starts at home. What made these kids think that it’s alright to bring weapons at school?” Tulfo said, calling on parents to talk openly with their children and stay attentive to their emotional state.

He added that no child is inherently violent, saying various circumstances can push young people toward harmful behavior if left unaddressed. According to Tulfo, engaging with children honestly and consistently is essential to steering them away from that path.

Push for stricter gun accountability

Tulfo said gun owners and custodians should face criminal liability if negligence allows children to access firearms.

He said he is preparing a bill to strengthen firearm ownership rules and require owners to properly secure their weapons.

The proposed measure aims to prevent children from gaining access to guns and hold negligent firearm owners accountable.