By I. Inojales | 10:15 AM June 23, 2026
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday, June 23, expressed deep sadness over the deadly shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte, that claimed the lives of students and left several others injured.
In a statement, Duterte said no parent sends a child to school expecting them to become victims of violence, stressing that the tragedy highlights serious gaps in the government’s ability to protect young people.
“We express our deep sadness and concern over the tragic incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, which resulted in the loss of young lives and injuries to learners,” Duterte said.
The Vice President noted that the incident was not an isolated case and cited previous tragedies involving learners, including the deaths of two student-athletes during a basketball training program. She urged the government to strengthen measures that would safeguard students both inside and outside school campuses.
Duterte also warned against the influence of radical elements, online threats, and individuals who exploit the vulnerabilities of young people. She emphasized that students must be protected from abuse, neglect, and violence, including within institutions tasked with ensuring their welfare.
Weaknesses in intelligence gathering
The Vice President further said the shooting exposed weaknesses in intelligence gathering and threat detection, stressing that authorities should identify risks before lives are lost.
“Education is not only about academics. What our children learn, who influences them, and the values they carry with them outside the classroom are deeply intertwined with national security and stability,” she said.
Her statement came a day after two student suspects, aged 14 and 15, allegedly opened fire inside San Jose National High School. The attack left three students dead and multiple others wounded. Both suspects have been taken into custody and are now under investigation.
Authorities said the minors initially claimed they had been victims of bullying.
Police said at least three students were killed while more than a dozen others sustained injuries, including gunshot wounds and injuries suffered during the panic that followed the shooting.
Investigators are examining the motive behind the attack and how the suspects obtained the firearms used in the incident.
The Philippine National Police has also launched an investigation into a police officer whose issued firearm was allegedly used by one of the suspects.
Authorities recovered a 9mm pistol and a .38-caliber revolver from the minors.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier ordered a thorough investigation into the shooting and directed authorities to ensure the safety and security of schools and other public places.
Duterte said the continuing loss of young lives should serve as a wake-up call for the government to take urgent action in making schools safer and protecting Filipino learners.
