Classes suspended in all Tacloban public schools after deadly shooting

TACLOBAN CITY — Classes in all public elementary and secondary schools here have been suspended on Tuesday,  June 23 following the deadly shooting at San Jose National High School that left three students dead and 13 others wounded, the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Tacloban City announced Monday night.

In a division memorandum, Schools Division Superintendent Sherlita Palma ordered the suspension of classes in all schools under the division, citing the prevailing situation that has caused anxiety and concern among learners and school personnel.

“The safety and well-being of learners and personnel are our utmost priority,” the memorandum stated.

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The order covers the city’s 64 public elementary and secondary schools.

Earlier, DepEd had already suspended classes at San Jose National High School, San Jose Central School, and Manlurip Elementary School.

Noel Eder, information officer of the Schools Division of Tacloban City, said the suspension order applies only to public schools, adding that it is up to the management of private schools whether they will follow the same measure.

The city remains on heightened alert following Monday’s shooting incident at San Jose National High School,  considered as the deadliest school-related attacks in Eastern Visayas, if not in the entire Philippines.

Police said three students were killed while 13 others were wounded in the attack.

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Authorities have taken into custody two minor suspects and continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting though one of them claimed to be a victim of bullying.

The incident has prompted local officials to implement tighter security measures, including the strict enforcement of the city’s curfew ordinance for minors, increased police visibility in the San Jose area, and heightened patrol operations in key public spaces.

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Education officials said the suspension of classes aims to give students, teachers, and school personnel time to recover from the incident while ensuring their safety as authorities continue their investigation. /gsg

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