The Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) is urging the public to be careful, compassionate and responsible in sharing information about the shooting at its junior high school campus that left two people dead Tuesday.

ADZU President Fr. Ernald M. Andal, SJ, said the university continues to accompany the families directly affected by the tragedy at the Tumaga Campus, while extending support to students, personnel and others who were shaken by the incident.

Two people were confirmed dead in the shooting, including the alleged shooter, an eighth-grade student. The other victim was a 10th-grade student.

The university said it is fully cooperating with law enforcement and other authorities investigating the incident. It declined to provide further details, saying it did not want to preempt the investigation or contribute to speculation.

Andal asked the community to remain patient as authorities work to establish the facts and urged people to rely on verified information.

He said the university's priority is the well-being of its students, personnel and families. ADZU will continue providing pastoral, psychological and other necessary support in the coming days.

The university also appealed to the public to remain compassionate and prayerful as the community copes with the tragedy.

“We must allow verified facts to guide us and avoid speculation that may cause further pain to the families and to our community,” Fr. Andal said.