Shooting at Philippines High School Leaves One Dead, Several Injured
Authorities are investigating the incident at Banga National High School in Mindanao province, where conflicting casualty reports have emerged.
A shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, Mindanao province, on Friday afternoon resulted in at least one death and several injuries, according to initial reports. The Department of Education expressed deep concern over the incident and stated that the immediate priority is the safety of students, teachers, and school personnel. The department is coordinating with local authorities to verify the details and provide support.
Officials have provided conflicting casualty figures. South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo reported one fatality and four individuals hospitalized. However, local media outlets have cited other Philippine authorities suggesting higher casualty numbers. The identities of the shooter and the victims have not yet been confirmed.
In response to the shooting, classes have been suspended at all levels in the municipality of Banga. The Philippine Red Cross has deployed medical teams to assist in the aftermath. Police are currently on site investigating the incident.
Gun violence is a recurring issue in the Philippines, which has a high rate of gun ownership in the region, although school shootings remain relatively rare. In June, a shooting at a high school in central Philippines motivated by a dispute over bullying resulted in three student fatalities and multiple injuries.