DepEd vows support for learners after Tacloban school shooting

The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas on Monday assured support for learners and school personnel following a shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.

In an official statement, DepEd Region VIII expressed concern over the incident, which occurred on the morning of June 22, and extended its sympathies to those affected.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this unfortunate incident, particularly the learners, personnel, and families who may have experienced fear, trauma, or distress as a result of the situation,” the regional office said.

The agency said it immediately coordinated with the Philippine National Police, the Schools Division Office of Tacloban City, and school authorities to ensure the safety and security of learners, teaching and non-teaching personnel, and other individuals inside the school premises.

DepEd Region VIII added that it has also coordinated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other concerned agencies to facilitate assistance and provide psychosocial support services to affected learners and personnel.

“The safety, security, and well-being of our learners and personnel remain our highest priority,” the regional office said.

It added that the regional office remains committed to providing the necessary support to the affected school community and to working closely with partner agencies to ensure schools remain safe, secure, and conducive spaces for learning.

DepEd said the incident remains under investigation by the proper authorities and deferred to the PNP for details of the case.

“We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to rely only on official statements from authorized agencies,” it added.

The agency also called on the public to support those affected by the incident.

“We call on everyone to join us in praying for the safety, healing, and recovery of all those affected by this incident,” the statement said.

Further updates will be released through official channels as more information becomes available, according to Salustiano Jimenez, DepEd Region VIII director.—MCG, GMA News