The Archdiocese of Palo in Leyte province, Eastern Visayas region of the central Philippines, has expressed shock and deep sorrow over the deadly shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City that claimed the lives of three students and left several others injured on June 22.
In a statement issued by Archbishop John F. Du, the archdiocese condemned the violence and offered prayers for the victims, their families, and all those affected by the tragedy.
“The Archdiocese of Palo is greatly shocked and grieving over this horrific act of violence and the tragic loss of innocent lives,” the statement said.
The archdiocese also extended its solidarity to the school community, the families of the students, and society at large, noting that the tragedy should prompt deeper reflection on how young people are being formed in families, schools, and communities.
“This tragedy challenges us all to reflect on how we have raised our children and young people and on the values we have imparted to them,” Archbishop Du said.
The archbishop called on the faithful and the wider community to unite in ensuring that such incidents never happen again. He urged continued prayers and support for the victims, asking God to heal the wounds caused by the tragedy through His love and mercy.
The shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, the regional center of Eastern Visayas located about 580 kilometers southeast of Manila, left three students dead and several others injured. Authorities have taken two student suspects into custody and are continuing their investigation into the incident. Initial reports indicated that bullying may have been a factor being examined by investigators.
The Archdiocese of Palo, whose ecclesiastical jurisdiction covers much of Leyte province, concluded its statement by assuring affected families of its prayers and spiritual support as the community mourns one of the deadliest school-related shootings in recent Philippine history.
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