Manila, Dec. 26 -- The police officer who fired indiscriminately at three minors in Paranaque City over firecracker use is facing criminal and administrative charges, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.

In a statement, PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said an investigation is ongoing and vowed that an aggressive response would follow if the police officer was proven to have committed serious offenses.

"In this case, policemen should be role models of responsible gun ownership and good character in the community. Any action that does not conform to the high standard of being a police officer will be dealt with," Nartatez said.

Police reports indicate that the incident stemmed from a confrontation betw...