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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Mindanao devider Abalos orders full report on Zamboanga school tragedy

Abalos orders full report on Zamboanga school tragedy

Published Aug 21, 2026 12:55 pm
Cabinet Secretary Benjamin Abalos
Cabinet Secretary Benjamin Abalos

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Cabinet Secretary Benjamin Abalos has ordered authorities to complete the investigation into the school shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University during his visit here on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Abalos stressed the need for a thorough probe to uncover the circumstances behind the deaths of two students at the private university.

He also appealed to the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing, saying it only causes unnecessary distress to the victims’ families and the wider community.

Describing the incident involving minors as “deeply painful,” Abalos said authorities must examine all possible factors that may have contributed to the violence.

“Mas­yadong sobra ‘yung violence. Hindi ko maisip na magagawa ng isang bata (The violence was excessive. I can’t imagine that a child could do such a thing),” Abalos said.

Meanwhile, Abalos noted that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also directed him to extend condolences to the victims’ families.

“What happened here is really painful. That’s why I’m calling for us to finish the investigation. Let us know the truth about this,” Abalos said.

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