2 wounded in Ecija school shooting

MANILA, Philippines — A 15-year-old student was wounded after she was shot by her alleged boyfriend who also shot himself in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija yesterday morning.

Probers said the shooting occurred at the Sta. Rosa Integrated School in Barangay Rizal at around 10:45 a.m.

The Department of Education (DepEd) condemned the incident.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara ordered DepEd regional director Ronnie Mallari and school officials to investigate the incident and take necessary measures.

“Schools must remain as safe and secure places for learners, teachers and personnel. Any act of violence within or near school grounds is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the DepEd said.

Reports said the 18-year-old suspect, a student from another school, entered a classroom where the victim and her classmates were having a break.

The suspect, who was armed with a revolver, allegedly shot the victim, hitting her in the neck. He then turned the gun on himself, according to Col. Heryl Bruno, Nueva Ecija police director.

Both students were taken to a hospital, where they remained in critical condition as of yesterday.

Bruno said the girl wanted to end the relationship, which the boy could not accept.