Al Qalam Institute condemns Ateneo de Zamboanga deadly shooting

PAGADIAN CITY – The academe-based Al Qalam Institute for Islamic Identities and Dialogue in Southeast Asia expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) community following Tuesday’s fatal shooting at its Tumaga high school campus that claimed the lives of two students.

The institute joined Ateneo de Davao University, where it is hosted, in mourning the tragedy, offering prayers for the bereaved families and for the recovery of those injured.

“May Allah (SWT) grant ease, comfort and sabr to everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident,” the institute said in a statement.

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READ: Ateneo de Zamboanga shooting: 2 students dead

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Sabr is an Arabic word that directly translates to endurance, restraint and perseverance, according to Islamic Relief, a non-profit Muslim charity based in the United Kingdom.

The institute stressed that Islam “holds human life sacred and is grounded in salam (peace), mercy, and protection of all people.”

It unequivocally condemned the act of gun violence, stressing that schools must remain safe sanctuaries where youth can learn, educators can teach, and personnel can work free from fear.

The institute urged the public to exercise empathy and restraint, calling on communities to stop sharing graphic recordings or unverified rumors, respect ongoing investigations, and reject hate speech and overgeneralizations.

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“In this time of grief, let us stand united through interreligious dialogue, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to protecting our youth and building peace,” the statement read.

The Al Qalam Institute has positioned itself as a leading research and resource center advancing peace-building and multicultural dialogue in Mindanao and the wider Southeast Asian region.

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The institute focuses on fostering understanding of Muslim identities while promoting interfaith and intercultural exchanges. Its programs highlight the role of academic research in bridging communities and sustaining peace efforts in conflict-affected areas of southern Philippines.

The solidarity message comes as Zamboanga City observes a Day of Mourning declared by Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso, with classes suspended across all schools on Wednesday.

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The city government and faith-based institutions have appealed for calm and unity as authorities continue their investigation into the campus tragedy. INQ