The Schools Division of Taguig City and Pateros on Tuesday condemned the murder of teacher Maria Elaine B. Valencia in Abra last week.
“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we address the senseless killing of our beloved teacher, Maria Elaine B. Valencia of Gat Andres Bonifacio Elementary School. In an act of unthinkable violence, she was taken from us in Barangay Bumagcat, Tayum, Abra, on May 08, 2026,” it said in a statement.
“We offer our most fervent prayers for the eternal repose of Maria Elaine and her unborn child. May they find peace in the arms of our Creator. To her family, friends, and students: We offer our deepest condolences and unwavering support as you navigate this devastating loss.”
“We strongly condemn this act of violence and call upon law enforcement authorities to act swiftly in apprehending the perpetrator. In this time of grief, we ask our community to stand together in prayer and solidarity for Maria Elaine,” it added.
Valencia, 36, seven-months pregnant, and a resident of Barangay Pawa, Lagangilang, Abra, was on her way to a bus terminal in Bangued, Abra onboard a motorcycle driven by her husband, accompanied by his cousin and a companion on another motorcycle, when she was shot by unidentified gunmen who sped away after the incident.
Valencia was taken to a hospital in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, where she was declared dead from multiple bullet wounds.
Gat Andres Bonifacio Elementary School paid tribute to Valencia. "Ma'am Elaine Valencia was more than a colleague, she was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her passion for teaching and genuine care for her students and co-teachers left a lasting mark that will never be forgotten."