Eastern Samar school head teacher found dead; suspect arrested
TACLOBAN CITY — A 36-year-old public school head teacher was found dead with multiple stab wounds in a grassy area in Barangay Alang-Alang, Quinapondan, Eastern Samar, early Monday morning, prompting a police investigation that led to the arrest of a suspect hours later.
The victim, identified by authorities only as “Leo,” was discovered at 2:40 a.m., concealed by thick grass in the village.
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A concerned resident reported the incident to the Quinapondan Municipal Police Station (MPS) at 2:41 a.m., triggering an immediate response from police officers and personnel from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Upon arrival, responders found the victim lying on his side on the ground with no signs of life. The area was immediately secured while investigators from the Eastern Samar Provincial Forensic Unit (ESPFU) conducted a crime scene examination.
The victim was later identified by his relatives.
A forensic examination revealed that the slain teacher sustained three stab wounds.
Police investigation showed that the victim was last seen on the evening of June 6 riding a motorcycle with a passenger identified only as “Ryan.”
Another motorcycle rider, identified as “Rick,” reportedly followed them toward an alley near Ryan’s residence.
Investigators also reviewed the victim’s Messenger conversations and found that he and Ryan had communicated and arranged to meet before the incident. Follow-up interviews and verification efforts led authorities to Ryan’s residence, located near the crime scene, where bloodstains were reportedly discovered.
Based on these findings, the Quinapondan MPS, together with the Provincial Intelligence Unit, and in coordination with the Sta. Rita Municipal Police Station launched a hot pursuit operation that resulted in Ryan’s arrest.
Authorities have yet to release details regarding the motive behind the killing as the investigation continues.
The victim served as Head Teacher I of Naga Elementary School in the Quinapondan District under the Schools Division of Eastern Samar.
In a statement, the Department of Education (DepEd) regional office expressed deep sorrow over the educator’s death, extending its condolences to his family, colleagues, students, and the entire DepEd community.
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“He dedicated his life to the noble profession of educating and guiding young learners, and his contributions to the school and community will always be remembered,” the agency said.
DepEd Region VIII also condemned all forms of violence and called for the swift administration of justice while urging the public to respect the privacy of the victim’s family during their time of grief.
The Schools Division Office of Eastern Samar said it is closely coordinating with law enforcement authorities as the investigation progresses./coa
