Manila, July 9 -- The Philippine Army (PA) said Thursday it will investigate the incident wherein a 16-year-old student was caught carrying an Army-issued Glock 17 9mm pistol while about to enter a public school in Tupi, South Cotabato on July 7.

In a message to reporters, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said they will "thoroughly look into this incident and will not tolerate any negligence on the part of its personnel in the handling and accountability of issued firearms."

He said PA takes such matters seriously and will conduct an internal comprehensive investigation in accordance with existing policies governing individual responsibility over issued weapons.

"Appropriate actions will be taken against those found accountable," h...