Don’t turn the latest school tragedy into a viral content.
Saddened by the Ateneo shooting in Zamboanga, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has appealed to the public to stop sharing videos, photos, or unverified reports of the “terrible” incident.
Angara appealed for restraint in a bid to protect the privacy and dignity of minors and grieving families.
A student opened fire at Ateneo de Zamboanga University on Tuesday morning, killing a fellow student and injuring two others before taking his own life. The shooting was also reportedly livestreamed through a body camera.
“I also appeal to the public to refrain from circulating videos, photographs, or unverified accounts of the incident. Minors and grieving families are involved, and their privacy and dignity deserve our protection,” Angara said in a statement.mera.
Angara has expressed sadness over the shooting incident, offering sympathies to the affected families and the school community.
“I am deeply saddened by this morning’s shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School,” he said.
“As a father, my heart goes out to the parents who are grieving today. My sympathies are likewise with all the families affected by this tragedy, as well as the teachers, learners, and school personnel who experienced this terrible incident,” he said.
He said the Department of Education would offer psychosocial support to affected learners, teachers, and families as needed. “Whether public or private, they are our learners,” he said.
He also said the Philippine National Police has started its investigation on the incident, particularly into how a minor was able to obtain firearms and bring them onto the school campus. The answers could help prevent another tragedy in other schools, he added.
