Tacloban school shooting leaves at least 3 dead, 5 injured
A shooting incident at a Tacloban school left at least three people killed and five people injured on Monday, June 22.
In a statement shared on its Facebook page, the Police Regional Office 8 confirmed that the shooting took place at San Jose National High School at approximately 9:00 a.m. Classes were suspended at the institution as well as San Jose Central School and Manlurip Elementary School effective immediately, per the Tacloban City Information Office.
Initial investigation conducted by the Tacloban City Police Office showed that the incident led to three fatalities and five injured individuals. Per authorities, the injured victims were given immediate assistance and were transported to medical facilities for treatment.
Two suspects have been arrested. According to GMA News, both of them are minors. The Philippine STAR reported that one of them is a 15-year-old who is reportedly the son of a soldier, according to Col. Noelito Getigan of Tacloban police.
The TCPO issued a separate statement on Facebook condemning the shooting incident.
"The Tacloban City Police Office strongly condemns the shooting incident that transpired this morning at San Jose National High School," it read.
An extensive probe is being conducted “to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify all persons involved, and establish the motive behind this unfortunate event.”
“Appropriate police operations are likewise being undertaken to ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the full force of the law,” police said.
Both the PRO-8 and TCPO asked everyone “to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary alarm or hinder the ongoing investigation” and urged those who have information that can help with their investigation to come forward.
DepEd says incident a 'high-alert situation'
The Department of Education expressed its "gravest concern" over what happened in a statement, saying it considers the incident a "high-alert situation."
The Department assured the public that its Central Office officials as well as its regional and division office personnel "are actively on ground, coordinating closely with school authorities and law enforcement to secure the premises and ensure safety, security, and protection."
"To address the immediate emotional toll of this tragedy, the Department is working hand-in-hand with relevant government agencies to deploy critical medical assistance and appropriate psychosocial interventions for the affected learners and personnel," it added.
DepEd Regional Office VIII, in a separate statement, said that aside from closely coordinating with the PNP, the Schools Division Office of Tacloban City, and school authorities upon receiving information on the incident, it also got in touch with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other agencies for assistance and support.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this unfortunate incident, particularly the learners, personnel, and families who may have experienced fear, trauma, or distress as a result of the situation," the regional office said.
"Further updates shall be provided through official channels as information becomes available," it added.
