Shooting at Zamboanga University leaves two students dead
A shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) during class hours on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two male students, including the alleged gunman, according to Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso. The mayor, speaking in a radio interview, confirmed the fatalities and provided a preliminary account of the incident.
Mayor Olaso stated that the minor suspect entered the school carrying a high-powered firearm and a .45-caliber pistol. Based on video that police are still investigating, the mayor described the sequence: the suspect first attacked a teacher who was seated at a table, apparently missing the teacher. He then moved to another room, pulled out the .45-caliber pistol, and shot a student, who fell and died. Two other individuals were injured before the suspect died by suicide. Olaso added that the suspect wore a body-worn camera and livestreamed the shooting.
Police identified one of the victims as a Grade 10 student, and the suspect as a Grade 9 student of the same school. The campus is the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Grade School Department at the Fr. William H. Kreutz, SJ, Campus in Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City, as reported by SunStar Publishing Inc.
Official response and ongoing investigation
Classes at AdZU were suspended, and students were picked up by guardians, according to Mayor Olaso. Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued a statement saying that the concerned PNP unit was in close coordination with school authorities and other government agencies to ensure the safety and orderly movement of students, faculty members, and school personnel. Nartatez said the situation was under control and urged parents and guardians to remain calm. He also said, "Authorities are currently establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident. The PNP will provide verified information as appropriate and appeal to the public to refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports, photos or videos that may cause unnecessary concern."
SunStar reported that police are investigating the incident and that authorities are establishing circumstances. The PNP Chief's appeal to the public to refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports underscores the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Context: Recent School Shooting in the Philippines
This incident marks at least the second school shooting in the Philippines in less than two months, following an event in June at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, as noted by SunStar. The recurring nature of such tragedies may prompt renewed discussion about school safety and prevention measures, though official responses so far have focused on reaction and investigation rather than broader policy changes.