Two students opened fire in a high school in Tacloban City, Philippines, on May 27, 2026, killing three classmates and wounding at least 20 others, according to NBC News.
What happened
According to police, the suspects, ages 14 and 15, were arrested after the shooting at San Jose National High School. Regional police chief Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy stated that 15 of the 20 injured were gunshot victims, including a student who was hit in the head. The gunman’s rampage prompted panic, causing others to jump out of windows as they sought safety.
“The suspects barged into two rooms because after the shooting in the first, the children scampered and the suspects apparently ran after some victims into another room,” Capoy told reporters. Most of the deceased and wounded were female students. Police recovered over 40 shell casings from the scene.
Initial investigation revealed the suspects claimed they were bullied. They had no prior criminal records; one suspect obtained a 9 mm pistol from an aunt who is a police officer, while the other used a .38-caliber revolver. There was only one security guard on duty, allowing the suspects to enter the school armed.
Why it matters
This incident raises concerns about school safety and gun violence in the Philippines, where shootings are less frequent but still pose a serious threat. The attack has sparked calls for increased security measures in schools and other public spaces. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the need for thorough investigations and reinforced security protocols.
Background
On January 20, 2022, a similar albeit fatal incident occurred in the Manila metropolitan area, where a man armed with pistols opened fire during a graduation ceremony, killing three people. That incident underscored the risks posed by firearms in the Philippines, where unlicensed weapons are pervasive.
What’s next
The suspects will be transferred to child welfare officials following an investigation since they are minors. Authorities are urging the public to cooperate by providing information to assist in ongoing inquiries as security procedures are reassessed nationwide.
