The government has temporarily blocked access to the online game GoreBox following the shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City that left three students dead and several others injured.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center announced the restriction as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.
According to the agency, one of the students involved in the shooting was identified as an avid GoreBox player. The game contains graphic depictions of shootings, executions, and other violent scenarios, prompting regulators to review its content and accessibility while the investigation is ongoing.
“We cannot ignore possible warning signs, especially when lives have already been lost,” CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos said.
Authorities said the temporary block is intended to give regulators time to examine whether exposure to violent online content may have played a role in the events leading up to the shooting.
The CICC clarified that investigators have not concluded that GoreBox caused the attack. However, the agency said all possible factors surrounding the incident are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
The National Telecommunications Commission and internet service providers have been directed to restrict access to the game while the review is underway.
The temporary block will remain in effect as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the Tacloban school shooting.
