Manila teacher being probed for abusing, molesting students
The Department of Education. File photo by Niño Jesus Orbeta/Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) said on Thursday that it has started looking into the case of a high school teacher who has been accused of forcing a student to eat a cockroach, adding that the investigation is being conducted “swiftly and fairly.”
The DepEd issued the statement after confirming that the Schools Division Office of Manila and the department’s Learner Rights and Protection Division earlier received a report from a parent about a case of child abuse involving a teacher in Tondo, Manila.
The high school teacher—who was arrested on Dec. 12 but released on bail on Dec. 15—allegedly threatened a student and forced him to eat a cockroach after he was caught by the student molesting a girl inside a restroom.
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According to DepEd, the ongoing investigation “is being handled swiftly and fairly,” adding that it was also looking into the alleged molestation case.
Simultaneous inquiry
“A simultaneous inquiry regarding the alleged molestation is being conducted with the end view that all learners involved are protected and assisted,” it said.
The DepEd said that the Manila field office has already been directed to take immediate action to protect affected students, including class adjustments, psychosocial support and close monitoring of their well-being.
It stressed that it enforces a “clear zero tolerance policy against any form of violence or abuse against learners,” reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the safety, dignity and rights of students.
“Any act that harms a child has no place in our schools, and those found accountable will face appropriate administrative and legal consequences in accordance with law and due process,” the DepEd said.
