CAGAYAN de Oro City — Police are investigating a shooting involving two students at a private school in Barangay Lunzuran, Zamboanga City, Tuesday morning, as authorities work to determine how firearms entered the campus.

The incident happened at around 7:50 a.m., according to initial Philippine National Police (PNP) information.

A Grade 9 student was identified in the initial police report as the alleged shooter, while a Grade 10 student was among those affected.

The PNP is withholding the identities and other personal details of the students because they are minors.

Police are investigating the ownership and legal status of the firearms, as well as how they were brought into the school and used during the incident.

Responding officers secured the area while the Regional Forensic Unit 9–Scene of the Crime Operations conducted a crime scene examination. Other police units are also pursuing leads to establish what happened.

Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered a careful, evidence-based investigation and directed authorities to protect the privacy and welfare of the students and their families.

Senate inquiry eyed

Senator Risa Hontiveros said the incident also raises concerns about the possible livestreaming and online circulation of violence involving young people.

“Kung ang karahasan ay nililivestream, mas malaki at mas malalim ang harapin natin sa lipunan,” Hontiveros said.

She said she would ask the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality to examine the incident during its hearing Thursday.

The inquiry is expected to look at school safety measures, access to dangerous weapons and the possible influence of online platforms on young people.

Hontiveros said schools must remain safe spaces for children and that other students should not have to experience similar violence.

Schools urge responsible sharing

The incident also drew support from other Ateneo institutions.

Xavier University expressed solidarity with the Ateneo de Zamboanga University community and sympathy for the victims, their families and others affected.

The university reaffirmed its weapon-free campus policy and urged students and the public not to share photos or videos of the incident.

The Ateneo de Manila University community also condemned the violence and called for a swift investigation into how dangerous weapons were accessed and brought into a school.

The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), meanwhile, reminded journalists, content creators and social media users to practice responsible reporting.

The group urged the public not to share the names, faces or other identifying information of minors involved in traumatic incidents and to avoid posting graphic images, videos or private details involving victims and their families.

The PNP likewise appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information, photos, videos and personal details while the investigation continues.

Authorities said additional information will be released once facts are verified.