Three students killed in rare Philippines school shooting as Tacloban probes security gaps

Authorities in the Philippines are investigating a rare school shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City after two teenage students allegedly opened fire on classmates on Monday 22 June 2026. Police said three students were killed and seven others wounded.

The suspects, aged 14 and 15, were taken into custody after the attack at the government-run school, which has more than 1,500 pupils.

Investigators examine bullying and firearm access

Regional police chief Brigadier General Jason Capoy said investigators were examining claims that the suspects had been bullied, while also looking at how two firearms came to be on the campus.

AP reported that one weapon was a 9mm pistol allegedly obtained from a relative who is a police officer, while the other was a .38 calibre revolver. ABC News Australia reported that one officer had been taken into custody as part of the firearms inquiry. Officials said that because the suspects are minors, the case will proceed under child protection and juvenile justice rules.

A shock in a country where school attacks are rare

The attack has shaken the Philippines because school shootings are uncommon there compared with other forms of gun violence. Police and education officials now face pressing questions about campus security, firearm access and the support available to students who report bullying.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr called for a thorough investigation and stronger safeguards in schools.

Focus turns to care and accountability

For families in Tacloban, the immediate priorities remain medical care, counselling and accountability for how an ordinary school morning became a national tragedy.

As the inquiry continues, scrutiny is likely to centre on how the weapons reached the campus and whether earlier warning signs were missed.