Fil-Am Teachers Group Mourns Victims of Ateneo de Zamboanga School Shooting

The Association of Filipino Teachers in America (AFTA) has expressed grief over the deadly school shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, calling the tragedy a reminder of the shared responsibility of schools, families and communities to protect young people.

Two students, including the suspected shooter, died in the August 18 attack at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University High School campus in Zamboanga City. Two other people were wounded, according to the latest reports. Police have corrected earlier information and said the shooter was a Grade 8 student.

Authorities said the student opened fire inside the school before moving to another floor, where he was later found dead from a gunshot wound. Investigators said evidence indicated that he took his own life. Authorities also confirmed that portions of the attack were livestreamed using a body-worn camera.

Police are investigating the motive and examining the student's electronic devices and online activity. Authorities are also looking into how the student gained access to firearms belonging to his father, including a .40-caliber pistol issued by the Bureau of Customs.

AFTA President Rena Pedaria, a Filipino-American educator, said the tragedy underscores the need for greater vigilance and intervention not only inside schools but also in homes, communities and online spaces. Pedaria is president of the Association of Filipino Teachers in America.

“As the head of a teachers’ organization and as an educator, I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives at Ateneo de Zamboanga University,” Pedaria said. “This heartbreaking incident reminds us that protecting our young people is a shared responsibility one that extends beyond the classroom and into their homes, communities, and digital spaces.”

“May this tragedy move us not only to mourn, but to act with greater vigilance, stronger guidance, and deeper compassion,” she added. “No family should have to endure such a loss, and no young life should be lost when greater awareness and intervention could make a difference.”

Pedaria extended AFTA’s sympathies to those affected by the shooting.

“Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga University community,” she said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation and directed authorities to identify measures to prevent similar violence in schools. The Department of Education said it was coordinating with mental-health partners to provide psychological first aid and psychosocial support to affected students, families and school personnel.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara traveled to Zamboanga City on August 19 and met with Ateneo officials, local authorities and police. Angara said school safety should go beyond physical measures such as fences, cameras and security systems and should include stronger efforts to mentor, guide and connect with young people.

The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.