With investigations now underway regarding the matter.
On Tuesday, August 18, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School – Tumaga Campus in Zamboanga City was rocked by gunshots as a student reportedly opened fire.
The suspect, whose identity will be kept redacted, would also be later found dead in a hallway inside the school building as one victim was also pronounced dead by authorities.
In a statement issued by the educational institution, it confirmed that there were two fatalities in the grim incident and said they were “saddened” by what occurred.
“As for other information, we are coordinating with authorities for the full report with full details to be provided as soon as possible,” the school furthered.
Meanwhile, in light of the tragedy, the school immediately coordinated with parents and guardians of students to fetch their child.
In addition, Ateneo de Zamoanga said they have set up official communication channels and will relay these information to the public as soon as possible.
“We urge the public to refrain from sharing unverified info, photos, and videos as these will only bring further harm to those involved and may hinder the ongoing investigation of the incident,” they emphasized.
In the meantime, the school also asked people to respect the privacy of all affected individuals.
“We pray for the quick resolution of the situation and for the safety of all. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding,” it added.
For his part, Fr. Ernald Andal, SJ said in a video message that the university is fully coordinating with authorities as they continue their investigation and that the educational institution also providing support to those directly affected by the tragedy.
DEPED
The Department of Education (DepEd) also expressed its grave concern over the shooting incident at the private educational institution.
“DepEd stands with the Ateneo de Zamboanga community during this difficult time and is ready to extend whatever support and assistance we can to the affected learners, families, school personnel, and concerned authorities,” the agency told.
Moreover, “We are also coordinating with mental health partners to provide Psychological First Aid and psychosocial support to those affected.“
BOC
Meanwhile, following the incident, the background of the perpetrator circulated on social media, with his father supposedly employed as a member of Customs Police.
Hence, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) also issued a response to the said situation, where it extended its condolences to and solidarity with the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic shooting incident.
Upon learning of the incident, BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno immediately ordered the relief and preventive suspension of the said Customs Police personnel, who was identified as the owner of the firearms allegedly used by the student involved, pending the results of a thorough investigation.
“The Commissioner has likewise directed the Deputy Commissioners concerned, in coordination with the appropriate field offices, to immediately conduct a full investigation and gather all relevant documents, records, statements, and other evidence related to the matter,” it furthered.
The BOC chief also instructed all concerned personnel to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation by the proper authorities and ordered a comprehensive accounting and inventory of all issued firearms across the Bureau.
Nepomuceno also looks to review compliance with all BOC policies and issuances on gun safety, firearm custody, transport, carrying, storage, and safekeeping.
These compliance reports from all concerned units have been required within twenty-four (24) hours.
“The Bureau of Customs remains committed to accountability, transparency, and ensuring that all necessary measures are undertaken to prevent incidents of this nature from happening again,” it added.
