MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Thursday it has started providing psychological first aid (PFA) to learners affected by the Aug. 18, 2026 shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga.
Eight learners aged 11 to 14 received PFA from the department's mental health professionals on Aug. 19 through its Zamboanga Peninsula field office, the DSWD said in a statement.
"The intervention provided by the DSWD to the students was done in a safe and supportive space where they could process their emotions, express their concerns, and learn healthy coping strategies as they deal with the psychological impact of the traumatic experience," said Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the department's spokesman.
The DSWD said Dumlao shared that in a meeting with school administrators, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured that the department would continue to give support through aftercare services and others, including Enhanced Trauma-Informed Care, medical aid, and Parent Effectiveness Sessions, if necessary.
The field office was set to conduct PFA with teachers and staff today, the DSWD said.
"As the Secretary instructed, next week the Department scheduled a Trauma Psychosocial Support Training for frontline responders and duty-bearers who responded in the Zamboanga school shooting...Our aim is to teach responders with appropriate knowledge and skills to ensure that they are equipped to provide psychosocial support and are sensitive to the needs of trauma survivors," Dumlao said.
