Stabbing dead of student inside QC school disturbs DepEd

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MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education-National Capital Region (DepEd-NCR) on Friday said it was “deeply disturbed” by a stabbing incident involving students in a school in Quezon City.

In a statement, the agency extended condolences to the victim’s family.

“We are deeply saddened and disturbed that violent incident[s] such as this happened among our students inside the school, which is supposed to be a safe place,” the DepEd-NCR said.

A 13-year-old male student was stabbed by a classmate inside the Culiat High School at 5:45 a.m. on Friday.

READ: Violence in school: Teen stabs classmate dead in Quezon City

Citing the Schools Division Office of Quezon City (SDO-QC), DepEd-NCR said the involved CICL (child in conflict with the law) student is already under the custody of the authorities.

Meanwhile, students and teachers who witnessed the incident underwent psychological first aid, with follow-up stress debriefing sessions.

The agency, through the SDO-QC, also committed to assisting the victim’s family.

The Regional Interim Learners Rights and Protection Section, in coordination with the Division Child Protection Unit and the School Child Protection Committee, will also develop appropriate intervention mechanisms for the CICL student.

The DepEd-NCR said they would facilitate the student’s continuous education through alternative modes.

It then enjoined school administrators, teachers, non-teaching personnel, parents, students, and all stakeholders to raise and educate children to become peace-loving and responsible community members.

“DepEd-NCR shall continuously work with all stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of our learners in our schools,” it added.

JPV