SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has called for a comprehensive review of the country’s youth justice laws, school safety policies, and mental health interventions following the fatal shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte, reportedly involving minor suspects.

Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Youth, expressed condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the incident and stressed the need to assess whether existing laws and regulations are adequate to prevent similar tragedies.

“Nakikiramay ako sa mga pamilya at mahal sa buhay ng mga nasawi at mga nasugatan sa karumal-dumal na pamamaril ngayong araw sa San Jose National High School sa Tacloban City, Leyte. Bilang isang magulang, napakasakit tanggapin ang trahedyang ito, lalo na’t mga kabataan at mag-aaral ang naging biktima,” Go said.

The senator said the incident highlights serious concerns not only about campus security but also about the welfare of young people who may be exposed to violence, bullying, trauma, and other risks.

“Schools are supposed to be zones of peace and learning. It is deeply troubling that our students are exposed to such unnecessary risks instead of being able to focus on their studies. What is even more alarming are reports that the suspects themselves are minors,” he said.

The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of the country’s juvenile justice system, particularly the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 and its amendment under Republic Act No. 10630, which govern cases involving children at risk and children in conflict with the law.

Go said Congress should not hesitate to amend existing laws if weaknesses or gaps are identified.

“Tututukan ko ang isyung ito. Kung merong dapat ayusin sa mga kasalukuyang batas, katulad ng Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, as amended, at mga regulasyon, ayusin na natin ngayon. Huwag na nating hintayin pang merong panibagong trahedya na naman,” he said.

The senator also urged concerned agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into how a firearm was allegedly acquired and brought onto school grounds, especially since the suspects were reportedly minors.

He likewise appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information while authorities continue their investigation.

Go underscored the importance of strengthening mental health programs for young people, saying the incident demonstrates the need for early intervention and stronger support systems in schools.

He cited his support for the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which seeks to improve mental health services in basic education institutions.

The senator also pointed to his proposed Senate Bill No. 176, which aims to establish Mental Health Offices in all public higher education institutions, providing free counseling services, trained mental health professionals, and 24/7 mental health hotlines.