CHR starts motu proprio probe into Tacloban school shooting

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said it has launched a motu proprio investigation into the deadly shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte.

In a statement, the CHR said the investigation will be conducted by its Regional Office VIII (Eastern Visayas).

"We remain committed to monitoring the situation to ensure that the rights and dignity of all parties, including the victims, their families, and the suspects, are upheld and protected throughout the legal and restorative processes," CHR said.

The commission also said a "careful and principled approach" is needed since the incident involved two minors.

"While the Commission firmly calls for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure absolute accountability and justice for the victims, authorities must likewise adhere to the provisions of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (Republic Act 9344)," CHR said.

The law provides that investigation of a child in conflict with the law must be child-appropriate and protective of the child's rights.

Extending its condolences to the grieving families, the CHR said the incident demands accountability, justice, and a rights-based response that protect the welfare and dignity of all children involved.

The CHR also expressed alarm as the incident in Tacloban took place days after the stabbing incident at Cavite National High School and Bethel Academy of General Trias in Cavite.

According to the school principal of the Cavite National High School, the 18-year-old suspect and the schoolmate he stabbed inside the school had an ongoing grudge with each other before the incident happened.

Meanwhile, seven Grade 5 students were injured following an alleged stabbing incident by a Grade 8 student using a kitchen knife inside the Bethel Academy of General Trias.

"These incidents underscore the urgent need to strengthen measures that prevent violence and protect learners. Our CHR Region IV-A office is also conducting its motu proprio investigation on these cases," the commission said.

It also urged the Department of Education (DepEd), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units to review and strengthen school safety protocols and physical security measures while preserving schools as spaces for learning rather than militarized environments.

The CHR also urged the media and the public to refrain from sharing photos or information that may identify the involved minors.

"As the nation mourns this heartbreaking loss, we call on all concerned institutions to respond with urgency, compassion, and fidelity to human rights principles. Only through a rights-based and child-sensitive approach can we honor the victims, support those affected, and help prevent similar tragedies from happening again," CHR said.

PNP officials said Tuesday the shooting incident appeared to be premeditated, adding that one of the minors behind the shooting claimed that he and his companion only wanted to scare other students.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the Tacloban shooting incident was a planned "mission" by two teen students who allegedly carried it out. His undersecretary for operations, Dr. Malcolm Garma, said initial reports showed that the shooters' motive may be related to bullying, but took notice that the attacks did not seem to be targeted.

The DepEd said immediate psychosocial support will be provided to teachers and school personnel, while a guidance counselor will be assigned to assist the affected students.

As of Tuesday, three people have died while 20 others were wounded in the incident, according to the Eastern Visayas police.

The alleged shooters were identified as students aged 14 and 15.

The two teenagers are now under the custody of the Tacloban City Social Welfare and Development Office. — VDV, GMA News