DepEd working with PNP to investigate shooting of grade 7 student

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday said they are coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) in investigating the fatal shooting of a Grade 7 student at the Castor Alviar National High School in Laguna.

“The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Calamba City, in close coordination with the local Philippine National Police (PNP), is currently conducting an investigation on the motive of the suspect,” DepEd said in a statement.

A Grade 7 student passed away Thursday after being shot inside the school premises by his reported boyfriend Renan Estrope Valderama alias Renz Ivan Valderama.

READ: Grade 7 student shot by ‘boyfriend’ in Laguna dies

DepEd mourned the student’s death and said the school has already assured financial assistance to the victim’s family.

“DepEd extends its sincerest condolences to the bereaved family of the Grade 7 student who passed away at 4:00 p.m. on the same day,” it said.

“Officials of Castor Alviar National High School have already reached out to the victim’s family and assured them that they will be given the necessary assistance in settling the hospital bill and burial expenses,” it added.

DepEd said it will tap the Regional and Division Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and the City Social Welfare and Development Office “to conduct psychological debriefing to address the traumatic effects of the incident to learners and school personnel.”

Meanwhile, it assured the public of its commitment to improve school safety and urged stakeholders to ensure schools continue to be a “zone of peace” for learners.  (Editor: Mike U. Frialde)