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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider Negros Oriental governor urges review of school security after Zamboanga shooting

Negros Oriental governor urges review of school security after Zamboanga shooting

Published Aug 18, 2026 06:51 pm
Negros Oriental Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria (Negros Oriental LGU FB)
Negros Oriental Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria (Negros Oriental LGU FB)
BACOLOD CITY - Negros Oriental Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria directed the appropriate offices of the provincial government to coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) the Department of Education (DepEd), local government units (LGUs), and school administrators for a province-wide review and strengthening of security measures in and around school premises.
Sagarbarria strongly condemned the tragic shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, August 18 at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University campus in Zamboanga City.
“Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and loved ones, and the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga University community during this deeply painful and disturbing time,” the governor said in a statement.
He expressed solidarity with the people of Zamboanga City as they confront the grief and trauma brought about by this senseless act of violence.
“May we pray for everyone affected by this tragedy and for peace, healing, and strength for the Ateneo de Zamboanga University community and the people of Zamboanga City,” he said.
Sagarbarria stressed the significance of a careful assessment of school access and security protocols, stronger coordination with law enforcement and local authorities, increased security visibility where necessary, and a review of emergency preparedness and response procedures.
He said that schools must always remain places of learning, hope, growth, and safety.
“No student, teacher, parent, or school employee should ever have to fear for their life within an educational institution,” he added.
Sagarbarria also stressed that security must go beyond gates and personnel.
“We must identify vulnerabilities before they become tragedies,” he said, as he urged strengthen communication among schools, families, communities, and authorities so that warning signs and potential threats can be reported and acted upon promptly and responsibly.
He called on all Negrenses to remain vigilant but calm, and to refrain from spreading unverified information that may create unnecessary fear.
“Let us instead work together to ensure that our children, educators, and school communities are protected,” he said.
He assured that the provincial government will take proactive steps to heighten security across the province, particularly in schools, because the safety of the children and communities must always remain a paramount responsibility.
The recent tragic shooting came two months after the Tacloban shooting which killed three high school students and injured at least 20 others inside the school involving their two schoolmates.

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