DepEd condemns shooting incident at Banga National High School

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The Department of Education (DepEd) on Saturday condemned the shooting incident that occurred at Banga National High School in Banga, South Cotabato on Friday and expressed sadness at the tragic loss of lives.

"The Department of Education deeply mourns the tragic incident at Banga National High School in Banga, South Cotabato, and unequivocally condemns this violent act," the DepEd said in a statement.

"Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire school community during this devastating time. We are outraged by this breach of campus safety and are taking all necessary steps to support those affected and ensure accountability," it added.

The DepEd said its officials were already in Banga to assist the victims and coordinate with local authorities and law enforcement in the investigation.

"DepEd officials are already on-site assisting the victims and coordinating closely with local authorities and law enforcement to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident," it said.

Meanwhile, the department deployed immediate intervention teams to provide comprehensive psychological first aid and mental health support to the students, families, and school staff.

The DepEd also appealed to the public to observe caution in sharing unverified claims or graphic media that could further add to the trauma of those affected.

"We call on the public to exercise utmost responsibility: please avoid spreading unverified claims or graphic media that only compound the trauma of those affected," the statement read.

"We remain unwavering in our commitment to securing our learning institutions nationwide," it added.

Three students died while seven were injured during the shooting incident at Banga National High School on Friday afternoon.

One of the injured students is in critical condition at the intensive care unit of Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City, Banga Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head Joseph Franco said in an interview on Dobol B TV on Saturday.

Three others were discharged from the hospital on Friday night while another three students were referred to private hospitals, he added. —KG, GMA News