Full Breakdown
Tacloban School Shooting: Family Relocates Amid Ongoing Juvenile Proceedings
6/27/2026, 9:22:25 PM
The Shooting at San Jose National High School
On June 22, a 14-year-old student and his 15-year-old schoolmate opened fire at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. The attack killed three students and injured at least 20 others. The two suspects were apprehended and placed under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Family Departure and Community Reaction
A neighbor who identified himself as a village official reported that the suspect’s parents and grandparents left their home in Barangay 85 on Thursday, traveling to Manila where they have relatives. The official described the departure as an abandonment of the family’s house.
Background of the Suspect
The 14-year-old, eldest of three siblings, was described as quiet and lonely, rarely mingling with other youths. The village official said he often witnessed heated, sometimes physical, arguments between his parents. His grandfather holds the position of barangay councilman.
Legal Custody and Rehabilitation
Both suspects are held in a DSWD-run rehabilitation facility and will be processed under the Philippines’ juvenile justice system.
Data Summary
- Suspects: 14-year-old male and 15-year-old male (unnamed)
- Fatalities: 3 students
- Injured: at least 20 students
- Location: San Jose National High School, Tacloban City
- Custody: DSWD rehabilitation center
Official Statements & Responses
The village official said the family’s move does not excuse the shooting and noted no evidence of drug involvement. The DSWD confirmed the youths are in a rehabilitation center and will face juvenile court.
Criticism & Opposition
The official warned that the unhealthy home environment should not justify the attack on innocent students, reflecting community concerns about accountability.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The source does not give the exact injury count beyond “at least 20,” nor the 15-year-old accomplice’s identity; no drug link is reported.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They have abandoned their houses since Thursday. What we have learned is that they were going to Manila,” — Anonymous village official
- “That boy is a quiet person. He does not really mingle with young people here in the village. He appeared to be a lonely boy,” — Anonymous village official
- “His environment was not healthy. Perhaps that contributed to the way he acted,” — Anonymous village official
- “should never justify what he did to innocent students.” — Anonymous village official
What’s Next
Juvenile court proceedings continue while the DSWD’s rehabilitation program remains in place.
