The Department of Education will strengthen counseling and other support services for students following a shooting at a school in Zamboanga City, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.
Angara discussed the planned measures during a situation briefing with officials from Ateneo de Zamboanga University, the local government and the Philippine National Police.
He said mental health and counseling services should be among the priorities for students who may have been affected by the incident.
The DepEd is also preparing to hire counselor associates because of a shortage of qualified guidance counselors, Angara said.
He stressed the importance of active parental guidance, saying parents should be involved not only in their children’s school activities but also in what they see and learn outside school.
Reports that bullying may be connected to the incident were also discussed during the briefing. However, the DepEd has not confirmed any link between bullying and the shooting.
Angara emphasized the need for schools, families, local governments and law enforcement agencies to work together to protect the safety and welfare of students and teachers.
The education agency also expressed sympathy to the families and individuals affected by the incident.
The DepEd said it will coordinate with concerned authorities as efforts continue to promote a safer school environment.
The measures come as the agency focuses on providing support to students who may be dealing with the effects of the shooting.
The briefing brought together education officials and representatives from the university, local government and police to discuss the situation.
For the DepEd, counseling and support services remain a key part of assisting students after the incident, while parental involvement and cooperation among institutions were also highlighted as important areas of attention.
No additional details about the reported possible bullying connection were confirmed by the agency during the briefing, while the department continued to focus on student support and safety.
