Authorities in the Philippines have confirmed that the devastating shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City was a calculated act rather than an impulsive outburst. Two junior high school students reportedly carried out the attack, which left three fellow students dead and 15 others wounded this past Monday. Police spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co revealed that the suspects spent over an hour waiting in a school restroom before initiating the violence, noting that at least one of the boys had undergone formal training at a firing range to prepare for the incident.

While investigators are currently working to pinpoint a definitive motive, they are exploring several disturbing avenues, including a history of bullying and the potential impact of harmful online influences. Police Regional Office 8, which took the two suspects into custody immediately following the tragedy, emphasized that the evidence points to deliberate planning and preparation. As the investigation continues, officials are focused on understanding the factors that led these two young students to commit such a violent act against their peers.