EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara called for a comprehensive, community-wide strategy to safeguard schools and support youth mental health following a shooting incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School.
Leading emergency intervention efforts, Secretary Angara joined Ateneo de Zamboanga University President Fr. Guillrey Anthony M. Andal, SJ, Zamboanga City local government officials, and representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) for a joint security briefing to evaluate existing campus protocols and streamline emergency procedures.
Expressing deep condolences to the bereaved families, Angara emphasized that learner safety transcends public-private institutional boundaries.
“Dapat natin i-approach itong problema bilang isang komunidad, dahil problema ito hindi lang ng isang eskwelahan pero palagay ko problema ito ng ating kabataan, ng komunidad, at ng bawat komunidad sa buong bansa,” he stated.
While physical safeguards like perimeter fences, metal detectors, and CCTVs remain vital, Angara stressed that emotional support systems and community engagement are equally critical.
Reminding the public that schools serve as a second home, he urged educators and parents to actively check on students’ emotional well-being, echoing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a supportive environment where older students act as protective figures for younger peers.
To address immediate safety concerns, the PNP will increase perimeter patrols around schools, while local barangay tanods will reinforce security, particularly in institutions lacking guard personnel.
Parallel to heightened security, DepEd is focusing on scaling up socio-emotional learning and mental health initiatives across campuses, while psychosocial support is currently being provided to those affected by the tragedy.
In a separate session, Angara met with school principals from the Zamboanga City Schools Division Office to address operational issues, including classroom shortages and campus security.
Addressing the online aftermath, Angara urged the public, media, and digital content creators to practice responsible digital behavior.
Citing reports of graphic content and unverified rumors, he cautioned that sharing sensitive footage deepens trauma for grieving families and students.
DepEd appealed to the public to respect the privacy of victims as police investigations continue.