San Pedro police warn parents they may be liable for minors' actions after viral student fight

Parents in Davao City may be held liable for property damage or injuries caused by their minor children, the San Pedro Police Station (PS2) warned on Saturday, after a commotion involving students circulated widely on social media, according to Mindanao Times.

In a statement dated Nov. 7, police said they had identified the students involved, working closely with school administrators, and had scheduled conferences with the students' parents and guardians.

Police explained that minors go through diversion and intervention programmes under Republic Act No. 9344, the juvenile justice law. However, they stressed that parents remain financially responsible for their children's actions under the Civil Code and the Family Code of the Philippines.

"We strongly encourage the youth to be mindful of their conduct," PS2 said. The station also warned students that taking part in public disturbances could result in a police record and harm their future.

Police also reminded the public not to post unedited videos, names or photos of the minors online. They said publishing the personal details of underage individuals violates the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and RA 9344.

Rather than recording incidents or posting them on social media, residents are asked to report ongoing disturbances directly to PS2 San Pedro at 0998 598 7057 or through the National Emergency Hotline 911.