The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has started its own probe into the death of a Grade 5 student, who was reportedly slapped by his teacher in Antipolo City, and the killing of a three-year-old girl, who was also allegedly abused sexually in Sultan Kudarat.

"The Commission deplores all acts which pose threats to safeguarding the rights and dignity of children," the CHR said in a statement.

"We underscore the importance of recognizing the individuality and rights of children whose physical and mental vulnerabilities should not relegate them from receiving equal and proper treatment from adults who are supposedly responsible for their welfare and protection," it stressed.

The first case under CHR's motu proprio (on its own initiative) investigation involves the death of a 14-year-old student who was reportedly slapped by his teacher for being unruly in class.

It said the boy went into coma for several days after the incident inside the classroom and died last Oct. 2. The police started its own investigation, conducted a medico-legal autopsy, and was reported to be filing a homicide case against the teacher.

In the case of a three-year-old girl, the CHR said that based on reports she was killed and sexually abused by her 72-year-old neighbor who attempted to assault her mother but who was able to escape.

The girl's eight-year-old sibling told the police that the neighbor smashed his sister's head and took her away.  The young girl was found dead meters away from her home and was found, after a medico-legal examination, that she was raped.

The CHR acknowledged the ongoing efforts of law enforcers in the resolution of the two incidents and to hold the perpetrators accountable.

"CHR looks forward to the immediate resolution of these incidents consistent with relevant laws that protect the rights of children. We also amplify the families’ call for justice by urging concerned government agencies to extend their support and assistance," the CHR said.

At the same time, the CHR extended its condolences to the families of the two young victims and expressed hope that its independent probe will help in seeking justice and accountability from the perpetrators.

It then urged the government to strengthen legislative, administrative and social measures that "will secure children’s safety wherever they may be in line with the State's obligation to ensure the protection of children as one of the vulnerable sectors."