Zamboanga school shooting: DepEd appeals for ‘compassion over clicks’

DEPED. The Department of Education headquarters in Pasig City. Angie de Silva/Rappler The Department of Education urges the public to stop sharing misinformation and wait for facts from official sources MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) has appealed to the public to stop sharing videos, photographs, or other sensitive materials on the recent shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) where two students died. “The circulation of such material may further compound the trauma of those directly affected and cause additional distress to their loved ones,” the agency said in a statement on Tuesday, August 18. DepEd reiterated their reminder not to share misinformation about the incident and called on the public to “rely only on verified information” from official sources. “Let us choose compassion over clicks. Our priority must be the safety, dignity, and healing of the affected school community.” DepEd warlier said they were coordinating with mental health partners to provide psychological and psychosocial support to affected individuals. AdZU suspended classes on Tuesday and declared Wednesday, August 19, as a day of mourning. Two students, including the shooter, died. According to police report, both minors were armed with 9mm pistols. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has also offered psychosocial support, saying counselors and social workers from their field office are “equipped” to provide such services. “Bagamat naka-lockdown pa kanina ‘yung Ateneo de Zamboanga University, nakahanda ang aming mga social workers to provide psychosocial intervention. ‘Yung mental wellness first aid ang importante,” DSWD chief Rex Gatchalian told reporters on Tuesday. (Although Ateneo de Zamboanga University is on lockdown, our social workers are ready to provide psychosocial intervention. The mental wellness first aid is important.) – Rappler.com How does this make you feel? Loading