DepEd suspends classes in Tacloban City schools amid school shooting

The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division in Tacloban City has suspended classes in all schools in the city following the Monday morning shooting incident at the San Jose National High School that left three dead and 11 injured.

In Division Memorandum 406 dated June 22, schools division superintendent Sherlita Palma initially said classes are suspended until Tuesday, June 23, 2026 in the following schools:

• San Jose National High School,
• San Jose Central School, and
• Manlurip Elementary School.

However, this was followed by another directive, which stated that “in view of the prevailing situation causing anxiety and concern among learners and personnel, classes in all schools are hereby suspended on June 23, 2026.”

Division Memorandum 406 cited the “unfortunate incident that occurred involving students of San Jose National High School” as the reason for the class suspension.

Psychological first aid (PFA) shall be conducted from June 24 to 26, 2026, the directive said.

“Subject to the result of the ongoing assessment and advice by the experts, classes shall resume after a series of PFAs have been conducted, either through face-to-face or alternative mode of learning,” the division memorandum said.

“Everyone is encouraged to offer prayers and support for the victims, their families, and the entire school community during this difficult time,” it added.

Earlier, DepEd Region VIII in Eastern Visayas vowed support for learners and school personnel following the shooting incident.

“The safety, security, and well-being of our learners and personnel remain our highest priority,” it said in a statement.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also ordered a thorough investigation of the shooting incident and gave instructions to ensure the safety of people in all establishments, especially schools.

Marcos was also saddened by the school shooting, Malacañang said. — JMA, GMA News