Three students killed in Philippines school shooting

At least three students were killed and seven others injured when two students, aged 15 and 14, opened fire at a school in the city of Tacloban, southeast ​of Manila, police said.

One of the suspects was arrested immediately after the shooting, while the ​other later surrendered, authorities said.

Police said the suspects used a 9 ⁠mm Glock pistol and a .38-caliber revolver, but it remains unclear how they obtained ​the firearms. Police said 40 empty shells were recovered from the crime scene.

Allen Rae ​Co, the Philippine National Police spokesperson, said the pistol was issued to a police officer now under investigation and has been placed in the custody of the regional police, while the revolver is ​registered to a security agency based in Cebu City in central Philippines.

School ​shootings are considered rare in the Philippines, which has relatively strict gun ownership regulations, including background ‌checks ⁠and psychological evaluation requirements, though illegal firearms remain in circulation.

The shooting occurred weeks after schools in the Philippines reopened following a months-long break.

Both suspects have been turned over to social welfare authorities. Initial interviews indicated the two were allegedly bullied since they were in seventh grade.

"Initially, the ​motive of the crime ​is a grudge ⁠related to school bullying," Co told reporters.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, expressing sadness over the incident, ordered a thorough investigation and directed ​authorities to ensure safety and security in public places, especially ​schools.

Police said ⁠the victims have been transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment, while additional personnel have been deployed at the school to ensure the safety of students, staff, parents, and ⁠the ​surrounding community.

In July 2022, a gunman opened fire ​at an Ateneo de Manila University law school graduation ceremony in Quezon City, killing three people, including former Lamitan ​City mayor Rose Furigay.

-Reuters