Vice President Sara Duterte on Sept. 21 condemned the shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, describing it as the third school shooting in the Philippines this year.
In a statement, Duterte said the incident showed that violence can occur in schools at any time. She linked the shooting to widespread violence in Philippine society and criticized the government over public safety.
Duterte also accused the Marcos administration of prioritizing political consolidation and “political survival” over governance. She said this had compromised the protection of children.
“The Marcos administration has failed the victims and survivors of the South Cotabato tragedy,” Duterte said, adding that other Filipino children remain at risk.
She also criticized what she characterized as the administration’s lack of meaningful action and enforcement of order following the incident.
The Banga National High School shooting happened on Sept. 18. Authorities said three people died, including the suspected student gunman, while several students were injured.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. separately ordered a thorough investigation into the shooting, including how a minor was able to obtain and bring a firearm into the school, according to the Presidential Communications Office.
The Department of Education has also said it would investigate reports about an online community allegedly linked to the suspect and strengthen school safety measures following school shootings.
Duterte’s statement came as authorities continued investigating the circumstances surrounding the Banga incident.
Her remarks focused on government accountability and the safety of students, while the investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.
The Banga shooting has renewed attention on school security and the government’s response to violence involving students.
Duterte ended her statement by saying Filipinos deserve better leadership.
The vice president’s comments are her assessment of the administration’s response. The government has announced an investigation and measures related to the incident.
