EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara visited the learners and school personnel of San Jose National High School affected by the recent shooting incident, reaffirming the Department of Education’s commitment to providing assistance and support to the victims and their families.

In coordination with local authorities, the Philippine National Police, and school officials, Angara conducted an on-site inspection of the campus to assess security vulnerabilities and push for stricter safety measures.

The education chief stressed that ensuring the safety of learners and school personnel remains a non-negotiable priority of the administration.

“Labis na ipinagdadalamhati ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos at ng buong DepEd ang marahas na insidenteng ito, kaya agad nating tiniyak ang tulong at suporta sa pamilya ng mga biktima. Alinsunod sa utos ng Pangulo, lalo nating hihigpitan ang seguridad sa mga paaralan upang mapanatili itong ligtas na espasyo para sa ating mga kabataan,” Angara said.

The shooting claimed the lives of three learners and left 12 others injured, prompting widespread concern across the school community and the nation.

Angara also visited the wakes of the victims and checked on the condition of the wounded in various hospitals.

To help address the trauma caused by the incident, DepEd partnered with the Department of Health, the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and UP Tacloban Psych to provide immediate mental health and psychosocial support services.

The secretary likewise directed the strict implementation of security protocols nationwide under DepEd Order No. 006, series of 2026, or the Guidelines for Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment, to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The directive includes a review of school entry and exit points, regular bag and vehicle inspections, and the installation of essential security equipment such as CCTV cameras and metal detectors.