A shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, Mindanao province, has resulted in at least one fatality and multiple injuries. The incident took place on Friday afternoon.
South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo told reporters that one person died and four others were hospitalised. Local media have reported higher casualty figures, citing other Philippine authorities.
The Department of Education expressed deep concern and stated its immediate priority is the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and school personnel. They are coordinating with authorities to verify the incident and provide support, urging the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information.
Banga disaster management authorities have suspended classes at all levels across the entire municipality due to the shooting. The Philippine Red Cross has deployed medical teams to assist in the aftermath, and police are investigating at the scene.