Parents of Tacloban Shooting Suspect Are Both 4Ps BeneficiariesÂ
The parents of the 14-year-old suspect involved in the controversial Tacloban school shooting are both 4Ps beneficiaries.
On Wednesday (July 1, 2026), during the hearing of the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, Police Staff Sergeant Arla Ray Pacencia addressed claims that she had been serving as the parent of her nephew.
Pacencia, who is the suspect’s aunt, clarified that she was not acting as the child’s parent and only provided occasional assistance when the family was facing difficulties.
According to her, the boy’s parents are both unemployed and are beneficiaries of the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, more commonly known as 4Ps.
Because of the family’s financial situation, Pacencia said there were times when she helped her nephew with basic needs, particularly when the family was struggling to provide food, milk, and educational expenses.
The policewoman explained that her support came from concern for the child’s welfare and was not meant to replace the responsibilities of his parents. Her statement was made to correct reports suggesting that she had taken on a parental role in raising the teenager.
Limited resources and unemployment can place additional pressure on households, often making it difficult to meet the daily needs of children.
The authorities are also looking into the circumstances surrounding the child’s upbringing and family environment. Officials emphasized the importance of ensuring that children receive proper guidance, support, and access to education regardless of their economic situation.
In case po na walang wala po talaga ang parents niya because they are members of 4Ps, wala po silang trabaho and naawa naman po ako sa bata lalo na kapag humihingi po ng pambili ng ulam gatas, kahit po sa education nila,” Pacencia said.
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