A tragedy unfolded at Banga National High School in Banga, South Cotabato, in the southern Philippines, leaving at least six people dead and 17 injured. The suspected shooter is also believed to be among the dead, according to infohub.kz.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development reported that at least six people were killed and 17 others wounded. The shooter is believed to have been a student at the same school and is also reported to have died.
Classes at all levels in Banga were temporarily suspended following the incident, according to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
The Department of Education said it was deeply concerned and is coordinating with school administrators, local authorities, and law enforcement.
"Our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of our students, teachers, and school staff," the department said.
Psychological assistance, as well as mental health and psychosocial support, has been promised to the victims and others affected by the tragedy.
The Department of Education also urged the public not to spread unverified information while authorities establish the circumstances of the incident. A possible motive for the Friday shooting has not yet been disclosed.