Manila: At least three people were killed and six others injured after a shooting incident at Banga National High School in Banga in the Philippines’ South Cotabato, on Friday, local media reported.
South Cotabato Governor Reynald Tamayo has confirmed the casualties, Philstar reported. Philippines Red Cross said that it has mobilised to provide critical life-saving assistance after the school shooting incident at Banga National High School in Banga on Friday.
In a statement on Facebook, Philippines Red Cross said, “Preliminary reports (subject to verification) indicate 6 injured individuals transported to Dantom Doctors Hospital and South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, one fatality, and the suspected shooter reported to be a student among the injured.”
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon said, “Our hearts go out to the school community, and our teams are on the ground ensuring that victims receive immediate care.”
Earlier, the Philippines Department of Education said it is “deeply concerned” over the reported shooting incident at Banga National High School in Banga, South Cotabato. It urged the people to remain calm and refrain from sharing unverified information as authorities continue their investigation. It said that the safety of every learner and member of the school community remains their “foremost priority.”
In a statement issued on Facebook, the Philippines’ Department of Education said, “Our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of our learners, teachers, and school personnel. We are closely coordinating with the Schools Division Office, Regional Office, local authorities, and law enforcement to verify the circumstances and provide necessary assistance. We are also ready to provide psychological first aid and mental health and psychosocial support to those affected.”
Last month, a shooting incident occurred at the junior high school building of Ateneo de Zamboanga University in Philippines, where a student with two pistols shot dead a classmate, Philstar reported.
On June 22, at least three students and 20 others were injured after two students opened fire at San Jose National High School in Philippines’ Tacloban City.
(IANS)
