TACLOBAN CITY — The courage of slain student and Senior Scout Chris Lorenz Fabian was formally honored by the Tacloban City government as he was posthumously named the city’s “Young Hero” for sacrificing himself to protect his classmates during the June 22 shooting at San Jose National High School (SJNHS).
The recognition was conferred on Wednesday,Aug. 12 during the city’s observance of International Youth Day at SJNHS through City Ordinance No. 2026-16-15, which cited Fabian’s “extraordinary selfless courage and supreme sacrifice” in the face of danger.
Fabian’s mother, Erbea Fabian, accepted the recognition on behalf of her late son and thanked the city government and others who continue to honor his memory.
“I am deeply grateful that my son’s courage has not been forgotten,” she said during the ceremony.
Fabian, 15, was among the three students killed in the June 22 shooting that shocked Tacloban and drew national attention.
Based on earlier reports and resolutions recognizing his heroism, Fabian showed exceptional presence of mind when he rushed to close the classroom door as the attacker approached, helping shield his classmates from further harm.
His actions later earned recognition from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines-Leyte Council, which passed a resolution honoring his courage and devotion to the Scout ideals of service and sacrifice.
The city ordinance further institutionalizes Fabian’s recognition as a young hero, preserving his story as part of Tacloban’s history and highlighting the values of courage, compassion and service that he displayed in his final moments.
The conferment also formed part of the city’s International Youth Day observance, underscoring the role of young people in promoting leadership, service and positive action in their communities.
Fabian was also posthumously named one of the recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Eastern Visayas Awards for embodying extraordinary heroism, selflessness and concern for others despite his young age.
City officials said Fabian’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to uphold courage and compassion and to serve others even in the face of adversity.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
