Marcos condemns, orders thorough probe into South Cotabato shooting

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condemned yet another school shooting incident, this time in South Cotabato, and directed agencies to report on school security measures being implemented.

At least three students died in a shooting at Banga National High School, which happened inside the school shortly after 1 p.m. One of the fatalities is believed to be the shooter, who reportedly turned the gun on himself. The incident also left eight students injured.

READ: 3 dead, 8 wounded in South Cotabato school shooting

In a statement, Marcos offered his condolences to the bereaved families and vowed to provide the necessary assistance to those injured.

He said, “I have also ordered a thorough investigation into today’s shooting, including how a minor obtained a firearm and was able to bring it inside the school.”

“We cannot accept school shootings becoming a normal part of our children’s lives,” the president said.

Marcos further said, “Our children have the right to go to school without fear. Parents have the right to send their children to school knowing they will return home safely. This is our responsibility to every Filipino family.”

READ: Ateneo de Zamboanga confirms 2 dead in campus shooting

The fatal shooting was the third in three months, following incidents in Tacloban and Zamboanga.

Following the two previous incidents, Marcos said he directed government agencies to strengthen security in schools and take all necessary measures to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.

“Today, I ordered the Department of Education, [Department of the Interior and Local Government], and Philippine National Police to report to me on the measures they have taken following the previous incidents,” he said.

In the coming days, Marcos said he will announce additional measures to address remaining security gaps and further protect students. /das