A former student opened fire at a school in the Philippines on Wednesday, killing three people before turning the gun on himself, in an attack that authorities said was motivated by a long-standing grievance over bullying. The incident has prompted a review of British safety protocols for overseas educational institutions.
The attack occurred at the Ateneo de Manila University in the capital, Manila, where the gunman, identified as a 27-year-old man, entered a campus building and fired multiple shots. Two school employees and a student were killed; three others were injured. The gunman later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Philippine police said the suspect had been a student at the university six years ago and had harboured a grudge over bullying he experienced during his time there. The attack was not linked to terrorism, they added.
The British government said it was in contact with local authorities and was offering consular assistance to any affected British nationals. A spokesman for the Foreign Office said: "We are saddened by the tragic events in Manila. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families."
In London, the Department for Education announced an immediate review of security protocols at all British international schools and institutions overseas. The review will focus on anti-bullying measures, mental health support for students, and procedures for identifying and managing potential threats from former students.
A senior government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: "This is a stark reminder that bullying can have devastating consequences. We must ensure that our schools, both at home and abroad, are doing everything they can to protect students and staff."
The shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Philippine schools, where lax gun laws and a culture of impunity have been blamed for a rise in attacks. The Philippines has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in Asia, and firearm regulation is weak.
The incident has also reignited debate in Britain about the effectiveness of anti-bullying policies. According to a 2022 survey by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, one in five children in the UK report being bullied frequently. Campaigners have called for more robust measures, including mandatory reporting of bullying incidents and greater investment in mental health services in schools.
The review of British safety protocols is expected to report within three months. Recommendations may include enhanced vetting of visitors to school premises, improved digital monitoring for threats, and greater collaboration with local law enforcement.
As the Philippine authorities continue their investigation, questions remain about how the gunman was able to enter the campus with a firearm. Ateneo de Manila University has implemented heightened security measures in response to the attack, including bag checks and armed guards at entrances.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the education community in the Philippines and beyond. For the families of the victims, the grief is raw. A memorial service is planned for later this week.
