Philippines: At least 3 students killed in school shooting

At least three people have been killed, including the suspected gunman, at a school shooting in the southern Philippines, officials said Friday.

Several other wounded students have been taken to the hospital.

"The incident resulted in three confirmed deaths and several individuals wounded," Philippine National Police said in a statement.

What we know so far

Emergency services were called to Banga National High School in South Cotabato province in Mindanao at about 1:30 p.m. local time (0530 GMT).

South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo said two students were killed, a boy and a girl, both 14, and that the gunman was the third person who died. 

Banga town mayor ​Albert Palencia ⁠was quoted by the Reuters news agency as saying eight people were injured, with four in critical condition.

Incident under investigation

"The incident remains under investigation. Responding police personnel immediately secured the area and coordinated with school authorities and medical responders to assist those affected and ensure the safety of students and school personnel," police said.

There was also no immediate information about a possible motive.

In a video posted on Facebook and verified by the AFP news agency, a man is seen carrying what appears to be a wounded child from the school.

In another, a teacher speaking in a local dialect can be heard saying there were two shooters, with a student insisting they were outsiders. 

Edited by: Natalie Muller

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