The DepEd has moved into crisis response after the deadly shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, treating the attack as a high-alert situation while sending officials to assist victims, secure the campus, and support learners and personnel.
The shooting happened on June 22, around 9 a.m., inside the public school in Barangay San Jose. Three students were killed, while police later reported 20 wounded. DepEd condemned the violence and said central, regional, and division officials were coordinating with school authorities and law enforcement.
DepEd said medical assistance and psychosocial interventions were being deployed. It urged the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the children involved while authorities continue the investigation.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said DepEd officials were sent to Tacloban to prioritize affected families. NewsWatch Plus reported that Undersecretary Malcolm Garma and Assistant Secretary Dexter Galban were dispatched to the city.
Angara said DepEd would help shoulder hospital expenses after reports that at least one victim allegedly faced admission problems because there was no deposit.
“Sabi namin, advance na muna ‘yung pera, kami na bahala. Huwag na problemahin ‘yun,” Angara said.
DepEd Region VIII coordinated with the Philippine National Police, the Schools Division Office of Tacloban City, school officials, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and other agencies to help secure the premises and provide support.
The DepEd Schools Division in Tacloban City suspended classes in all schools on June 23 because of anxiety and concern among learners and personnel. Psychological first aid was scheduled from June 24 to 26, with class resumption subject to assessment and expert advice.
Angara said DepEd would review school security after the attack happened despite the presence of a guard.
“Definitely magkakaroon tayo ng recommendation and action kung paano mapapaganda yung security,” Angara said.
