The Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) on Thursday clarified that it has not received any formal complaint related to the reported sexual harassment case at Gusa Regional Science High School-X (GRSHS-X), even as the school continues its own administrative investigation.
The clarification came amid widespread discussions on social media over allegations involving students of the science high school.
In a statement, the COCPO Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) said it has not officially monitored or received a formal complaint involving students or school personnel in connection with the reported incident.
Police Captain Earl T. Cartagena, chief of the COCPO-WCPD, said the office has nevertheless conducted verification and fact-finding efforts to establish the facts, ensure the accuracy of information, and prevent the spread of unverified claims.
The police clarification does not affect the school's ongoing administrative investigation.
Earlier, Gusa Regional Science High School-X said it had begun investigating the reported incident under Department of Education learner protection guidelines, with statements from the parties involved already gathered and evidence undergoing evaluation.
To help ensure the safety of students, COCPO has deployed Higalang Pulis personnel to the campus to conduct dialogues with school officials, maintain police visibility, and carry out crime-prevention activities.
Police said the initiative forms part of its continuing efforts to protect learners, promote a safe learning environment, and maintain peace and order in schools across the city.
The WCPD assured parents and students that should a formal complaint be filed, it will be acted upon promptly, thoroughly, and in accordance with the law and due process.
COCPO also urged the public to rely only on official statements for verified information and to refrain from spreading unconfirmed reports while the matter is being addressed by the proper authorities.
As of Thursday, the school has yet to announce the results of its administrative investigation, while police reiterated their commitment to assist should a formal complaint be lodged. Both school officials and the COCPO have appealed to the public to respect due process, protect the privacy of those involved, and avoid speculation while the investigation continues. (Ben Balce, Editorial Lead)
