Philippines School Shooting Kills 3 in Banga
Three students, including a 16-year-old suspected gunman, have died and eight others were injured in a shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, southern Philippines. Authorities said the two victims killed by the gunman were both 14 years old, while four of the wounded remained in critical condition.
Banga National High School Shooting
The attack occurred on Friday afternoon at the school in Banga, a municipality on the southern island of Mindanao. Authorities said the teenage suspect opened fire on fellow students before shooting himself.
Officials said the eight injured students were aged between 14 and 17. Emergency services responded to the campus, while police secured the area and launched an investigation into the circumstances and possible motive behind the shooting.
Investigators are also examining reports about the teenager’s online activity and how he obtained access to the firearm.
Teen Gunman Reportedly Warned Friends
Local officials said the 16-year-old had reportedly told friends during lunchtime to leave the school because he intended to carry out a plan after lunch. His friends apparently did not take the warning seriously because the teenager was known for joking.
Authorities said he subsequently began shooting students before turning the weapon on himself.
Classes Suspended Across Banga
Classes at all levels across Banga municipality were suspended following the shooting. Education authorities said psychological and psychosocial assistance would be provided to affected students, teachers and families.
The Banga shooting is the third deadly school shooting reported in the Philippines since June, following separate attacks in Tacloban and Zamboanga.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information while the investigation continues and have renewed calls for firearms to be securely stored away from minors.
