Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, has called for a thorough review of existing youth-related laws, school safety regulations, and mental health interventions following a fatal shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte. The incident, which occurred on Monday, June 22, 2026, has raised alarm particularly because the suspects themselves are reported to be minors.
Go expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and stressed the need for authorities and policymakers to examine whether current laws and regulations are sufficient to prevent similar tragedies. “Nakikiramay ako sa mga pamilya at mahal sa buhay ng mga nasawi at mga nasugatan sa karumal-dumal na pamamaril ngayong araw sa San Jose National High School sa Tacloban City, Leyte. Bilang isang magulang, napakasakit tanggapin ang trahedyang ito, lalo na’t mga kabataan at mag-aaral ang naging biktima,” Go said.
Concerns Over School Safety and Youth Welfare
Go emphasized that the tragedy highlights serious issues beyond school security, including the condition of young people who may be exposed to violence, bullying, trauma, and other risks. “Schools are supposed to be zones of peace and learning. It is deeply troubling that our students are exposed to such unnecessary risks instead of being able to focus on their studies. What is even more alarming are reports that the suspects themselves are minors,” Go stated.
The incident has renewed attention on the Philippines’ juvenile justice framework, particularly Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, as amended by RA 10630. Go said the tragedy should lead to a careful review of existing measures if gaps are found. “Tututukan ko ang isyung ito. Kung merong dapat ayusin sa mga kasalukuyang batas, katulad ng Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, as amended, at mga regulasyon, ayusin na natin ngayon. Huwag na nating hintayin pang merong panibagong trahedya na naman,” he said.
Investigation and Call for Caution
Go also called on concerned agencies to determine how the firearm was obtained and brought inside the school, especially given that the suspects are minors. He urged the public not to spread unverified information while authorities are still establishing the facts. “Bilang Chairman ng Senate Committee on Youth, mariin akong nananawagan sa mga kinauukulang ahensya ng pamahalaan na magsagawa ng immediate and full investigation kung paano nakakuha at naipasok ang baril na dala ng mga suspek na pawang mga menor de edad. Nanawagan din ako sa ating mga kababayan na huwag magpakalat ng mga hindi kumpirmadong impormasyon upang hindi madagdagan ang pangamba ng publiko,” Go said.
Initial reports indicate that the shooting took place at San Jose National High School, and authorities are looking into bullying as one of the possible factors behind the incident.
Mental Health Initiatives Gain Relevance
In light of the tragedy, Go’s mental health-related measures have gained renewed relevance. He co-authored and co-sponsored RA 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which aims to enhance mental health support in basic educational institutions. Additionally, Go filed Senate Bill No. 176, proposing the creation of Mental Health Offices in all public higher education institutions nationwide, providing free counseling services, trained mental health professionals, and 24/7 mental health hotlines for students.
These measures are designed to provide safe spaces for students, promote early intervention, and strengthen suicide prevention and mental health support in educational institutions. Go has repeatedly pushed for stronger support systems for young people facing emotional distress, trauma, and other mental health concerns.
Assistance and Prayers
Go assured that his office remains ready to extend assistance to affected parents and students within its capacity. “Samantala, nananatiling bukas ang aking tanggapan upang makapagbigay ng tulong sa mga magulang at kabataang apektado ng insidente, sa abot ng aming makakaya,” Go said.
He closed his statement with prayers for the victims, the injured, and those who suffered trauma from the incident. “My prayers are with the eternal rest of those who lost their lives, and for the healing of those who sustained injuries and trauma. It is my earnest hope and prayer that we will uncover the truth behind this tragedy and ensure that such an incident will never happen again,” Go said.
