Three students of Cabaluay National High School in Zamboanga City were injured after a fistfight, allegedly stemming from bullying, escalated into stabbing on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Police identified the victims as Grade 11 male students, both 16 years old, while the suspect was identified as alias “Aga,” 17, also a Grade 11 student.

Based on investigation, the barangay chairman reported the incident to the police around 8:58 a.m.

Investigators said a fistfight erupted inside the classroom and ended with the suspect allegedly using a small kitchen knife to attack the victims.

When policemen arrived at the school, the victims were already brought to a hospital for treatment.

One of the victims sustained injuries in the abdomen while the other sustained stab wounds in the back and right arm.

Authorities said the suspect was also brought to the school clinic for treatment as he also sustained injuries.

The suspect and the victims are in stable condition, as of this writing.

Police said the motive behind the incident was bullying.

In a Facebook post, the barangay said the situation has been placed under control and all measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of everyone in the school.

The barangay said Mayor Khymer Olaso immediately visited the school, along with police, barangay, and school officials, to meet with the suspect and the victims, as well as their parents and guardians.

The visit also aimed to assess the situation and provide the necessary assistance and intervention for all parties involved.

DEPED STATEMENT

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) expressed concern over the incident.

In a statement, DepEd said its priority is the welfare and recovery of the learners.

The DepEd Central Office is coordinating with the regional office and the Schools Division Office to ensure that necessary assistance and interventions are provided to the victims and their families.

“As the investigation proceeds, the Department will ensure that appropriate child protection maesures, guidance services, and psychosocial support are extended to affected learners and personnel, while fully observing due process,” DepEd said.

DepEd has already directed all schools and field offices nationwide to strengthen the implementation of school safety and child protection policies and to intensify coordination with parents, local government units, and law enforcement agencies.

“DepEd remains committed to ensuring that every learner studies in a safe, supportive, and violence-free environment,” DepEd said.

(With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)