PREsident Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered an investigation into a school shooting in the city of Tacloban that killed three people and injured five others.
“The President is saddened by the incident,” his office said in a statement, adding that he had ordered a thorough investigation and directed authorities to ensure safety and security in all areas, offices and establishments, especially schools.
Police said the two suspects have been arrested after the shooting at the San Jose National High School in Tacloban, a city on the island of Leyte around 579km southeast of the capital Manila.
The shooting occurred at about 9.00am inside the school in Barangay San Jose, the Tacloban City Police Office said, adding that an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances behind the incident.
Tacloban police chief Noelito Getigan told reporters that the suspects used a .38-caliber and 9mm firearm in the shooting.
One suspect, a minor and Grade 9 student, was arrested shortly after the incident, while the other later surrendered to authorities, Getigan said.
Police said the victims have been transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment, while additional personnel have been deployed at the school to ensure the safety of students, staff, parents and the surrounding community.
Authorities urged the public not to disseminate unverified information and to cooperate with investigators.
The Department of Education expressed grave concern, calling the incident a “high-alert situation”. In a statement, it condemned the violence and extended condolences to the victims’ families.
The incident is unusual in the Philippines, where school shootings happen only sporadically.
In July 2022, a gunman opened fire at an Ateneo de Manila University law school graduation ceremony in Quezon City, killing three people, including former Lamitan City mayor Rose Furigay. — Reuters
