After Zamboanga school shooting, DepEd eyes psychological aid

As it expressed concern over the recent school shooting incident in Zamboanga City, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday said it is now coordinating with its mental health partners to provide psychological first aid and psychosocial support to individuals affected by the incident.

“We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and sharing sensitive photos, videos, or details about the incident, especially since minors are involved,” DepEd said in a statement.

Earlier, City Mayor Khymer Olaso reported that two students died, one of them the alleged shooter, following the incident at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University.

For its part, the university said it was “saddened by the incident” and declared Wednesday as a day of mourning and prayer.

“DepEd stands with the Ateneo de Zamboanga community during this difficult time and is ready to extend whatever support and assistance we can to the affected learners, families, school personnel, and concerned authorities,” DepEd said.

Local authorities and the university are now coordinating with each other, saying they would provide more information once it is available. — LA, GMA News