21/08/2026
Statement of Sympathy to the Whole Ateneo De Zamboanga University Community
Juntos en Dolor, Firmes en Fe, Unidos por Justicia
(One in Grief, Steadfast in Faith, United for Justice)
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Zamboanga stands in solidarity with the Jesuit community, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University family, and all those affected by the tragic shooting incident.
We join the entire ADZU community in profound grief over the loss of young lives and in deep concern for those who have been wounded, traumatized, and deeply affected by this tragedy.
We assure the learners, teachers, personnel, families, and the entire academic community of our prayers, presence, and solidarity as we journey toward healing and recovery. In this painful moment, may no one feel alone. The Catholic faithful of Zamboanga are one with you.
We continue to believe in the power of faith formation and catechesis in nurturing the hearts and minds of our young people and teachers, forming communities rooted in compassion, respect, dialogue, responsibility, and peace. Our schools must remain safe spaces—places where young people can learn, grow, discover their dignity, and become instruments of peace.
As we mourn, we also affirm our commitment to truth, justice, and accountability. The Catholic faithful stand with the victims and their families in seeking a thorough investigation and appropriate accountability. We pray that the authorities may be guided by wisdom, fairness, courage, and a sincere commitment to justice.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”— Psalm 34:18
May the Lord embrace those who mourn, comfort those who are afraid, heal those who are wounded, and strengthen those who carry the weight of this tragedy. May He grant eternal rest to those who have died and consolation and strength to their families.
In this moment of sorrow, we choose prayer over fear, compassion over condemnation, truth over speculation, and justice over vengeance.
We grieve with you. We pray with you. We stand with you.We walk with you toward healing, justice, and peace.
— Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Zamboanga