ZAMBOANGA CITY (MindaNews / 23 August 2026) — The Board of Trustees of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) approved a resolution enhancing security measures across its three campuses, announced ADZU President Fr. Ernald Andal on Saturday.
In a social media post, Andal detailed that the enhanced measures include long-term improvements and a comprehensive security audit for the Salvador Campus (La Purisima Street), Lantaka Campus, and Kreutz Campus in Barangay Tumaga, home to the Junior High School.
Starting Monday, August 24, ADZU will enforce stricter protocols: thorough vehicle inspections, rigorous ID checks, tighter monitoring of entry/exit points, and controlled visitor access. These changes follow a tragic August 18 incident where a junior high student fatally shot a classmate before taking his own life. Classes, initially suspended until August 20, were extended to August 28.
“These measures will take more time,” Andal acknowledged, urging cooperation from parents and visitors. The university will also install additional CCTV cameras, metal detectors, and X-ray machines at pedestrian entrances, alongside bolstering real-time monitoring and improving visitor reception areas.
A security audit will guide the deployment of these measures, informing a stronger safety plan covering facilities, access control, personnel, technology, emergency preparedness, and law enforcement coordination. Andal emphasized that school safety hinges on collaboration with families: “What happens at home is just as important.”
Authorities confirmed ADZU adhered to security protocols during the shooting, and the university provided all relevant records. “Healing must be grounded in truth,” Andal stated, pledging to address the tragedy with honesty and care.
Dr. Norvie Jalani, an ADZU parent and faculty member, stressed that while no system guarantees zero risk, parents expect lessons to be learned, weaknesses addressed, and changes communicated before students return. She highlighted the need for both psychological recovery and physical security, asserting that schools must remain spaces for growth, not fear.
Dr. Loribel Adeser-Bontilao, who recently enrolled her children at ADZU, praised the school’s security but acknowledged evolving threats: “Systems must evolve… What kept us safe yesterday may not suffice tomorrow.” She resolved to raise her children with courage and discernment, trusting ADZU’s commitment to safety.
(Frencie L. Carreon, MindaNews)
