Authorities are investigating whether alleged bullying played a role in the attack that left seven other students injured.
TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — Three students were killed and seven others were injured Monday after two teenage students allegedly opened fire inside San Jose National High School during regular class hours, according to police. Both suspects were taken into custody as investigators began examining the motive behind the attack.
The shooting sent shock waves through Tacloban City and drew national attention in a country where school shootings are uncommon. Authorities said all victims were minors. Law enforcement officers, education officials and medical teams responded throughout the day as families sought information about loved ones and investigators worked to determine how the attack unfolded and whether warning signs had been missed.
Officials said the violence began at about 9 a.m. while classes were underway. Students and teachers rushed to find shelter as gunfire echoed through school buildings. Police responded to reports of an active shooter and secured the campus while emergency medical crews transported injured students to nearby hospitals. Three victims later died from their injuries. Authorities identified the suspects only by aliases because they are minors and said they are 14 and 15 years old. One suspect was detained at the school shortly after the attack. The second suspect allegedly fled the area before being located and arrested at a nearby residence after local residents alerted authorities. Investigators spent much of the day collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and documenting conditions inside classrooms and hallways where the shooting occurred.
Teachers and students described scenes of fear and confusion as the incident unfolded. Social studies teacher Irvin Nogar said he was teaching when he heard what sounded like gunshots nearby. Nogar said he immediately instructed students to remain calm, hide beneath their desks and stay quiet while he secured the classroom door. Police said preliminary witness accounts indicate the suspects allegedly moved through multiple classrooms during the attack. Investigators believe some victims may have been targeted as the suspects entered additional rooms after the initial shooting. Authorities recovered two firearms from the scene and said both weapons would undergo forensic testing. Officials have not disclosed how the firearms were obtained or whether they were legally owned. Police also have not released the identities of the victims because all of those involved are minors.
The attack has raised renewed concerns about school safety and student welfare programs across the Philippines. While the country periodically experiences incidents involving gun violence, shootings inside schools remain relatively rare. The case has prompted fresh discussion among educators and local officials about bullying prevention, mental health support and early intervention programs for students facing personal conflicts. Investigators said preliminary findings suggest the shooting may have stemmed from a personal grievance linked to alleged bullying. However, authorities stressed that the investigation remains active and that no final determination has been made regarding motive. Education officials said counselors and support personnel were dispatched to assist students, teachers and family members affected by the violence.
Authorities said both suspects are being processed under juvenile justice and child protection laws. Because the accused are minors, officials have released only limited information about their backgrounds. Investigators are reviewing witness statements, school records, digital communications and forensic evidence collected during the investigation. Police officials said they are working to establish a detailed timeline of events and determine whether anyone else may have had prior knowledge of the alleged plans. Authorities also intend to examine school security procedures and evaluate whether any warning signs were overlooked before the attack. Officials have not announced potential charges but said legal proceedings will move forward in accordance with laws governing juvenile offenders once evidence collection is completed.
Outside the campus, families gathered behind police barriers throughout the day waiting for updates. Students emerging from the school recounted seeing classmates run for safety as teachers worked to protect those in their care. Several parents remained near the campus for hours as authorities conducted their investigation. Tacloban City Police Office Director Noelito A. Getigan described the incident as deeply distressing and said investigators were committed to determining exactly what happened. Education officials expressed condolences to the families of the students who were killed and pledged support for those injured in the attack. Medical teams continued treating victims while counselors met with survivors and school employees to address the immediate emotional impact of the tragedy.
The investigation remained ongoing Monday evening as forensic examinations and witness interviews continued. Authorities said additional updates are expected after evidence reviews are completed and investigators determine the next steps in the juvenile justice process.
Author note: Last updated June 23, 2026.