President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragic shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, emphasizing that Philippine schools must remain among the safest spaces for learners.
In a statement addressing the incident that resulted in the deaths of two students, Marcos expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and the school community while calling for a comprehensive review of security measures.
“We grieve with the families and the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga community over a tragedy that should never have happened,” Marcos said. “Our schools are where we entrust our children to learn, to grow and to dream about the lives ahead of them. They must also be among the safest places in our country.”
The Chief Executive noted that he has already issued directives to security forces to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, identify gaps, and recommend preventive measures to avert similar tragedies in educational institutions across the nation.
“I have directed our law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident and to determine what more must be done to prevent another family, another school and another community from suffering the same grief,” he added.
Following the incident, the national government plans to collaborate closely with educational institutions and local communities to re-evaluate and reinforce existing campus safety protocols.
“We will work with our schools and communities to strengthen the safeguards that protect our students and ensure that they can pursue their education without fear. Every Filipino family deserves that assurance,” the President stressed.