TACLOBAN CITY— Police have taken into custody two minors allegedly involved in the deadly shooting at San Jose National High School on Monday, June 22, as authorities continue their investigation into the incident that left three students dead and seven others injured.
The Police Regional Office-8 (PRO-8) confirmed that the two learners, both considered children in conflict with the law (CICL), were apprehended shortly after the shooting inside the public high school in Barangay San Jose, Tacloban City.
The incident, one of the deadliest school-related acts of violence recorded in Eastern Visayas, triggered panic among students, teachers, and parents and prompted local authorities to suspend classes while investigators processed the crime scene.
According to the Tacloban City Police Office (TCPO), three students were killed while seven others sustained injuries and were immediately brought to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Police said responding personnel launched hot-pursuit and manhunt operations immediately after receiving reports of the shooting, leading to the swift location and custody of the two suspects.
In accordance with Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, as amended, authorities have withheld the identities of the minors.
The two are currently under police custody and are expected to be referred to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), with all procedures being carried out under child-sensitive protocols and legal safeguards.
Authorities have yet to establish the motive behind the attack and are continuing to gather evidence and statements from witnesses as part of an ongoing investigation.
Police Regional Director B/Gen. Jason Capoy said investigators are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial probe while ensuring that the rights of the minors involved are protected.
“Our personnel acted swiftly to place the CICL involved under custody while strictly observing the provisions of Republic Act No. 9344 and ensuring the protection of their rights and welfare,” Capoy said.
“We assure the families of the victims and the public that a thorough, impartial, and child-sensitive investigation is underway. PRO-8 remains committed to pursuing justice through the proper legal process and maintaining peace and order in our communities,” he added.
Capoy also commended the responding police personnel for their immediate action in securing the area, assisting victims, and locating the suspects shortly after the incident.
Meanwhile, PRO-8 said it continues to coordinate with school officials, local government units, and other concerned agencies to strengthen security measures, provide assistance to victims and their families, and help ensure the safety of students and school personnel.
The shooting has shocked residents of Tacloban City and sparked renewed discussions on school safety, mental health, and violence prevention programs in educational institutions across the region.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
