MALACANANG has directed authorities to conduct a deep and comprehensive investigation into the shooting incident that took place inside San Jose National High School in Barangay San Jose, Tacloban City, on Monday morning, June 22.
The tragic attack left three people dead and five others wounded, prompting immediate concern and action from the highest levels of government. Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro conveyed the President’s reaction in a statement, saying, “President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deeply regrets what happened. Anyone, especially the parents of the victims, would feel sorrow and fear over such an event.”
Castro further relayed the official directive from the Palace, emphasizing the need to ensure safety and security across all public spaces. “A thorough investigation is ordered regarding this incident, and we are ensuring protection and safety in all areas, offices, establishments, and especially in schools,” she stated. The government underscored that educational institutions must remain safe zones, and any act of violence within their premises is unacceptable and will be met with the full force of the law.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. Initial details from the Tacloban City Police Office show that eight individuals were hit by gunfire. Three of them succumbed to their injuries, while the remaining five were rushed to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment. Authorities have withheld the identities of the victims pending proper notification and consultation with their respective families.
Police confirmed that two suspects were involved in the shooting. One of them, classified as a Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL) and a resident of Barangay San Jose, was immediately apprehended at the scene. He is currently under police custody and will undergo legal proceedings in accordance with laws governing minors. Meanwhile, law enforcement units have launched a massive manhunt to capture the second suspect, who managed to escape and remains at large.
Investigators are still working to establish the exact motive behind the attack, as well as the nature of the relationship, if any, between the suspects and the victims. This incident is considered one of the most serious cases of school‑related violence recorded in Tacloban City in recent years, prompting intensified security reviews and calls for stricter measures to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
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