Senior Deputy Speaker and South Cotabato 2nd District Representative Ferdinand L. Hernandez expressed condolences to the victims and their families following the deadly shooting incident at Banga National High School in Banga, South Cotabato.
Hernandez also offered support to the affected families and the wider school community as authorities continue to investigate the incident.
“Let us not speculate. Hayaan nating gawin ng proper authorities ang kanilang trabaho, habang pinangangalagaan natin ang privacy at dignity ng mga batang involved,” Hernandez said.
He said government agencies should coordinate on assistance that may be extended to the families affected by the tragedy.
“Handa tayong makipag-coordinate sa mga concerned agencies para sa anumang tulong na maaaring maibigay sa mga pamilyang apektado,” he added.
Beyond the immediate response, Hernandez called for stronger measures to prevent similar incidents in schools, including tighter security against firearms, improved early intervention, and enhanced emergency response mechanisms.
“But we must also act. Kailangang agarang palakasin ang school safety, pigilan ang pagpasok ng anumang armas sa paaralan, at pagbutihin ang early intervention at emergency response,” he said.
The lawmaker stressed that schools are entrusted with the safety of students and that authorities must work to ensure that learners return home safely after attending classes.
“Ipinagkakatiwala ng bawat magulang ang kanilang anak sa paaralan. Dapat gawin natin ang lahat upang makauwi silang ligtas,” Hernandez said.
The statement came after the shooting at Banga National High School on September 18 that left three people dead and two others injured, according to the latest information provided by local authorities.
The incident remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to establish the circumstances and possible motive behind the shooting. Hernandez urged the public to allow investigators to conduct their work while respecting the privacy and dignity of the students involved.
