Speaker Dy mourns Tacloban school shooting victims, calls for tougher measures to keep schools safe

Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III joined the nation in mourning the victims of the fatal shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, and said the tragedy emphasizes the need to strengthen measures to prevent violence and keep schools safe.

“The House of Representatives joins the nation in mourning the students who lost their lives in this tragic incident. We extend our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones, and we pray for the recovery of those who were injured,” said the Speaker.

“Any act of violence that claims the lives of young people and disrupts the safety of our schools is a matter of grave concern. Schools must remain places of learning, security and opportunity for every Filipino child.”

Three students were killed and seven others were injured in the shooting, which occurred Monday morning inside the school campus. Police have taken into custody two Grade 9 students in connection with the incident.

Dy said the tragedy highlights the urgent need for government institutions, schools, families and communities to work together to prevent violence and better protect children.

“Ang paaralan ay dapat kanlungan ng kaalaman at pag-asa, hindi pugad ng takot at karahasan. Ito ang lugar kung saan nabubuo ang mga pangarap, hindi kung saan nagwawakas ang mga ito. Kapag may batang nasaktan o nasawi sa loob ng silid-aralan, hindi lamang isang buhay ang nawawala—may bahagi ng kinabukasan ng ating bansa ang nawawala kasama niya,” he said.

The House leader expressed support for a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident.

“The House supports efforts to establish the facts, ensure accountability under the law, and determine what measures may be necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future,” Dy said.

He noted that the reported involvement of minors underscores the importance of strengthening programs and support systems for young people.

“Hindi sapat na alamin kung sino ang may kasalanan. Kailangan din nating suriin kung anu-anong mga senyales ang hindi natin napansin, at kung paano natin mas mapapalakas ang mga sistemang magpoprotekta sa ating mga kabataan bago pa sila tuluyang maligaw sa landas ng karahasan,” he said.

Dy called on concerned government agencies, educators, parents, and local communities to strengthen initiatives on student welfare, mental health, conflict resolution and early intervention.

“This tragedy should compel all sectors to work together to strengthen school safety, promote the well-being of our youth, and address the conditions that can lead to violence. The House of Representatives stands ready to support policies and programs that advance these goals.” (RM)