The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday, Jan. 20, confirmed the fatal stabbing incident involving students of Culiat High School in Quezon City which resulted in the death of one student.
Issuing a statement, DepEd - National Capital Region (DepEd-NCR) said that a minor student was fatally stabbed by a fellow student at around 5:45 am inside the school premises.
“We are deeply saddened and disturbed that violent incident such as this happened among our students inside the school which is supposed to be a safe place,” DepEd said.
DepEd-NCR said that as reported by the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Quezon City, the involved Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL) student is already under the custody of the authorities.
“Also, the students who witnessed the said incident already underwent psychological first aid,” the agency said.
DepEd-NCR, through the SDO of QC and Culiat HS, assured the provision of assistance to the family of the victim.
Meanwhile, DepEd noted that the Regional Interim Learners Rights and Protection Section in coordination with the Division Child Protection Unit (CPU) and the School Child Protection Committee (SCPC) will also come up with “appropriate intervention mechanisms” for the CICL student and shall facilitate for his continuous education through alternative modes.
“Follow-up stress debriefing sessions shall also be administered to students and teachers who witnessed the incident,” DepEd said.
Following the violent incident inside the school, DepEd-NCR enjoined school administrators, teachers, non-teaching personnel, parents, students, and all stakeholders to “work together” in raising and educating children to become peace-loving and responsible members of the community.
“DepEd-NCR shall continuously work with all stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of our learners in our schools,” the agency said.