Philippines: School shooting leaves three dead and five injured

A shooting at a school in the central Philippines left at least three people dead and five wounded Monday morning, according to local authorities. The tragedy occurred at San Jose National High School, located in the city of Tacloban, in the province of Leyte.

Philippine police reported that one suspect was arrested shortly after the attack, while a second individual was still being sought. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances of the attack and the motives of the alleged perpetrators.

According to initial reports from law enforcement, the shooting occurred around 9:00 a.m. inside the school located in the San Jose barangay. The shooting caused widespread panic among students, school staff, and local residents.

The victims were quickly attended to by emergency services and transported to nearby medical facilities. Authorities have not yet released the identities of those killed or injured.

Given the seriousness of the incident, the regional police office deployed additional officers around the school to ensure the safety of students, teachers, parents, and the local community. Officials also urged the public not to spread unverified information and to cooperate with investigators.

This attack is reminiscent of another deadly shooting that occurred in July 2022 during a graduation ceremony at the Ateneo de Manila University law school. Three people were killed, including the former mayor of Lamitan City, Rose Furigay.

School shootings remain relatively rare in the Philippines. That's why this latest tragedy has sparked outrage across the country, as authorities continue their search for the second suspect, who remains at large, and to establish responsibility in this case.