Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
Teen hailed for courage during South Cotabato school shooting
A 14-year-old student has been recognized by the Department of Education for his bravery in confronting an armed gunman at Banga National High School in South Cotabato last month. Bryan Ezel Pamonag said his primary concern was protecting his fellow classmates from harm.
LSN Philippines ·
KORONADAL CITY — The Department of Education has honored a teenager who displayed exceptional courage during an armed attack at a South Cotabato high school, highlighting the student's selfless actions in the face of danger.
Bryan Ezel Pamonag, 14, confronted the gunman during the incident at Banga National High School in Banga municipality last month. During his recognition ceremony in Koronadal City, the student emphasized that his immediate priority was ensuring the safety of his classmates rather than concern for his own wellbeing.
The DepEd recognition underscores the incident's significance within the region's education sector. The department has made school safety a priority following the attack, which prompted heightened security measures across educational institutions in South Cotabato.
Pamonag's actions have drawn widespread praise from education officials and community leaders, who view his courage as an example of young Filipinos stepping up during critical moments. The student's composure and quick thinking are credited with preventing further casualties during the incident.