ZAMBOANGA CITY — A Grade 8 student who allegedly carried out a deadly shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) was reportedly under pressure over his academic performance and struggling with depression, Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso said Wednesday.
Olaso said the student, although an honor student, was reportedly seeking higher grades and may have targeted a teacher whom he believed was responsible for his academic difficulties.
According to the mayor, the student first attempted to shoot a teacher but failed to hit the target. He then moved to another classroom and allegedly fired at people inside the school.
Two students were killed in the incident, while several others were injured. Police said six students sustained injuries, although authorities clarified that most were hurt while attempting to escape rather than being directly hit by gunfire.
The suspect reportedly proceeded to the fifth floor of the school building, where he later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The incident has also prompted authorities to investigate possible security lapses at the university. Olaso said the suspect was allegedly able to bring two firearms onto the campus, raising questions about how the weapons passed through the school’s security measures.
Classes at ADZU were canceled as the school declared a day of mourning for the victims. Security measures were also heightened while authorities continued their investigation.
The Department of Education (DepEd) is coordinating efforts to provide psychosocial support to students, teachers, and other members of the school community affected by the shooting. The Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported that 21 students experienced panic attacks, anxiety, or minor injuries during the incident.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into the shooting.
Authorities also appealed to the public to refrain from sharing videos showing the attack, particularly sensitive footage, to protect the privacy and emotional well-being of the victims’ families and the wider school community.
