Three students were killed and five others injured in a school shooting in the southern Philippines on June 22, 2026, according to local police. The incident took place at a high school in the town of Marantao, Lanao del Sur province, a region known for occasional unrest.
Details of the Attack
Police reports indicate that the shooting occurred around 10:00 AM local time when an unidentified gunman entered the school premises and opened fire on students. The attacker fled the scene and remains at large. Authorities have launched a manhunt and are investigating the motive behind the attack.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims,” said a spokesperson for the Lanao del Sur police. The injured students were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Their conditions are reported as stable.
Response from Authorities
The Philippine National Police has deployed additional forces to the area to ensure security and assist in the investigation. The Department of Education has also issued a statement condemning the violence and promising support for affected students and staff. “We are coordinating with local authorities to provide psychosocial interventions for students and teachers,” the department said.
School shootings are rare in the Philippines, but the country has faced sporadic violence related to political conflicts and insurgencies in some regions. Lanao del Sur, in particular, has experienced security challenges due to the presence of armed groups.
Impact on the Community
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, with parents rushing to the school to check on their children. Local officials have called for calm and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement. “We must work together to prevent such tragedies and ensure the safety of our children,” said Marantao Mayor Abdulrahman Macabando.
This incident has reignited discussions about school safety and gun control in the Philippines. While the country has strict gun laws, illegal firearms remain prevalent. Advocacy groups are calling for stricter enforcement and better security measures in schools.
