A shooting occurred inside a high school in Tacloban City, Philippines, resulting in 3 deaths and 5 injuries. Police have initially detained one suspect, while another remains at large and is being pursued.
The Philippine National Police Region 8 and Tacloban City Police Station reported the shocking incident occurred around 09:00 today (22 June) at San Jose National High School in San Jose district, Tacloban City, Leyte Province. The shooting left 3 dead and 5 injured, marking one of the most violent school incidents in the city in recent years.
A video circulated to ABS-CBN news showed chaotic scenes with teachers and students fleeing the school in panic. Some were crying in fear, and footage showed groups of students helping carry injured female classmates to hospitals.
Police patrol officers quickly secured and cordoned off the area after the alert. They arrested one suspect at the scene, described as a "juvenile alleged offender" from San Jose. The suspect is now in police custody undergoing the juvenile justice process. However, officials confirmed another suspect escaped and police have launched an urgent manhunt.
All five injured were rushed to nearby hospitals and medical centers. The authorities have not disclosed the identities or names of the deceased and injured, as they are still notifying families.
Tacloban City Police and Police Regional Office 8 issued a joint statement strongly condemning the shooting. Additional police forces were deployed to ensure safety for students, teachers, and the local community. They urged the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information.
The police statement said, "We assure the public that we are working closely with relevant agencies and school officials to maintain order and prevent such incidents from recurring. Anyone with useful information is urged to contact authorities immediately."
The motive behind the shooting and the relationship between the perpetrators and victims are still under investigation. Following the incident, authorities ordered the immediate suspension of classes at three nearby schools—San Jose Central Elementary School, Manlurip Elementary School, and San Jose National High School—to ensure maximum safety for students and staff.