Philippines school shooting spurs security overhaul and youth law review

A shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte, left three students dead and about 20 injured, including 15 with gunshot wounds. Police identified two minor suspects who allegedly accessed firearms linked to a police relative and a security agency.

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Youth, called for an immediate review of youth‑related legislation, the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, school safety protocols and mental‑health support systems. He urged a full investigation into how the minors obtained weapons and pledged to monitor any needed legal changes.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara ordered the nationwide implementation of stricter school security measures under DepEd Order No. 006, including tighter entry controls, bag and vehicle checks, CCTV and metal detectors. He also coordinated urgent psychosocial assistance for victims, families and the school community, mobilising the Department of Health, DSWD, the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council and local mental‑health providers.