Outside San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Philippines on June 22, 2026. TACLOBAN POLICE

A rare school shooting in the Philippines has left three students dead and seven others injured after two Grade 9 students allegedly opened fire inside a public high school in Tacloban City on Monday (June 22). The shooting occurred at approximately 9am inside San Jose National High School, sending students and teachers scrambling for safety and prompting a nationwide response from law enforcement and education authorities. Police said two student suspects, aged 14 and 15, have been taken into custody. The victims were transported to nearby hospitals and medical facilities for treatment. Authorities said the suspects allegedly used a .38-calibre revolver and a 9mm pistol during the attack. According to Police Brigadier General Jason Capoy, Director of the Police Regional Office-8, the two suspects were classmates and close friends. “They are both Grade 9 students from the same school. They are close friends,” Capoy said. One suspect was arrested inside the school shortly after the shooting, while the second was apprehended in a follow-up operation. Police are continuing to investigate how the teenagers obtained the firearms and how the weapons were brought onto campus. Initial findings suggest the guns may have been smuggled into the school through one of several access points. Authorities said there was only one security guard on duty at the time of the incident.

Bullying angle being explored

Investigators are also examining reports that the two students may have experienced bullying over several years. “This is not confirmed yet but they have been allegedly victims of bullying since Grade 7,” Capoy said. “The interview is ongoing with the help from the DSWD, teachers and school officials.” Police have not established whether the suspects were targeting specific students. Investigators are reviewing witness accounts that suggest the gunmen may have pursued individuals after firing inside one of the classrooms. Most of the victims were reportedly Grade 9 students from two classrooms where the shooting occurred. Shortly after the attack, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered a full investigation into the incident. According to a statement from Malacañang, the President expressed sadness over the tragedy and directed authorities to conduct a thorough probe. The President also instructed government agencies to ensure safety and security in schools and other public institutions. The Department of Education described the shooting as a “high alert situation”, condemned the violence and extended condolences to the families of those killed. School shootings remain relatively uncommon in the Philippines compared to many other countries. One of the country's most high-profile recent gun attacks occurred in July 2022 when a gunman opened fire during a graduation ceremony at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, killing three people, including former Lamitan City mayor Rose Furigay. CAM/Expat Media
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