RismadarVoice Reporters, June 22, 2026
At least three students were killed and seven others injured after two students allegedly opened fire at a secondary school in the central Philippines, authorities confirmed on Monday.
The shooting occurred at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, located on Leyte Island, approximately 580 kilometres southeast of Manila.
Police said two suspects have been taken into custody following the attack, which unfolded around 9 a.m. local time within the school premises.
According to Tacloban City Police Chief Noelito Getigan, the suspects used a .38-calibre handgun and a 9mm firearm during the incident. One of the suspects, identified as a Grade 9 student and a minor, was arrested shortly after the shooting, while the second suspect later surrendered to authorities.
Emergency responders rushed the injured victims to nearby hospitals for treatment, while security personnel were deployed to the school to safeguard students, staff, parents, and residents in the surrounding area.
Investigators have launched a full inquiry to establish the motive behind the attack and determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed sadness over the incident and directed law enforcement agencies to carry out a thorough investigation.
In a statement released by the presidential office, Marcos ordered authorities to strengthen security measures in schools and other public institutions to prevent similar incidents.
“The President is saddened by the incident,” the statement said, adding that efforts were underway to ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly within educational environments.
Authorities also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to cooperate with investigators as the probe continues.
The Philippine Department of Education described the shooting as a “high-alert situation” and condemned the violence.
The agency extended its condolences to the families of those killed and pledged support for affected students, school personnel, and the wider community.
Officials said measures were being put in place to address the immediate needs of survivors and ensure a safe learning environment once normal activities resume.
School shootings remain relatively uncommon in the Philippines compared to some other countries, making Monday’s attack particularly shocking.
One of the most notable recent incidents occurred in July 2022, when a gunman opened fire during a law school graduation ceremony at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, killing three people, including former Lamitan City Mayor Rose Furigay.
