Zamboanga School Shooting Leaves Suspect, 1 Other Dead

A shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High on Tuesday, August 18, has left two people including the shooter, dead and several others injured, according to local officials and news reports.

Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso confirmed *two fatalities in the shooting, according to GMA Regional TV. Philstar, citing initial reports, said nine others were injured.

The shooter also allegedly livestreamed the incident on his social media account. Circulating videos appear to show the shooter carrying a long firearm and a pistol. Philstar reported: “The shooter first fired at the person in front of the classroom, then opened fire on the other people.”

Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed in a statement that the suspect, a grade 9 student, died Tuesday morning.

In an official statement, Ateneo de Zamboanga confirmed the two fatalities and said it was coordinating with authorities for a full report.

“The safety of our students is our top priority. We have already coordinated with parents and guardians to pick up their children and the university has ensured the safety of those remaining on campus,” the university stated.

“In the meantime, we ask everyone to respect the privacy of all affected individuals. We pray for the quick resolution of the situation and for the safety of all,” it added.

The Department of Education (DepEd) has also issued a statement on the incident, saying it was “gravely concerned over the reported shooting incident.”

The agency affirms its commitment to extend support and assistance to the affected learners, families, and the community. It added: “We are also coordinating with mental health partners to provide Psychological First Aid and psychosocial support to those affected.”

DepEd also issued an important reminder to the public: “We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and sharing sensitive photos, videos, or details about the incident, especially since minors are involved.”

In a separate statement, the Philippine National Police said: “Police personnel immediately coordinated with school authorities and other concerned agencies to ensure the safety and orderly movement of students, faculty, and school personnel. The situation is now under control.”

“Authorities are currently establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident,” it added. “The PNP will provide verified information as appropriate and appeals to the public to refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports, photos, or videos that may cause unnecessary concern.”

The incident comes after the university published a report about its Annual Guard Assembly for School Year 2026-2027.

According to the university, nearly 70 security personnel underwent security briefings, tactical inspections, safety discussions, and drug-prevention education. The training was intended to strengthen the university’s ability to prevent unauthorized access and respond to emergencies.

The Ateneo de Zamboanga shooting comes amid continuing concerns over school-related violence and student safety in Philippine schools.

On June 22, 2026, two teenage students allegedly opened fire inside their high school in Tacloban City, killing three students and injuring several others. Two separate stabbing incidents also occurred at schools in Cavite on June 16 and June 19. One of the incidents was captured on CCTV, showing a student entering a classroom and stabbing several students.

These incidents have prompted responses  from lawmakers and government agencies. President Bongbong Marcos Jr. said he was “open to banning violent online games,” noting that such digital content can desensitize children to real-world violence and killing. Senator Bam Aquino, the current head of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, disagreed, saying that banning violent online games was not a good solution.

In a hearing in March 2026, the Senate examined underreported bullying cases and gaps in school intervention, including the country’s shortage of guidance counselors. Senators pushed for stronger anti-bullying measures and considered penalties for parents of bullies.

*Erratum: An earlier version of this article incorrectly reported the number of students who died in the shooting. Two students died in the incident. The article has been updated to reflect the correct information.

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