BACOLOD CITY – The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) expressed deep concern over the stabbing incident involving minor students in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Tuesday, June 23.

The PRO-NIR encouraged parents, guardians, teachers, school administrators, and community leaders to immediately report any signs of violence, bullying, threats, gang-related activities, or other behaviors that may place students at risk.

"The safety of our children is a shared responsibility," the PRO-NIR said.

The PRO-NIR called on all sectors of society to remain vigilant, proactive, and work together to identify concerns early, resolve conflicts peacefully, and ensure a safe, supportive, and violence-free environment for every learner.

A Grade 9 student was injured after he was allegedly stabbed by his Grade 10 schoolmate after class dismissal outside a school in Barangay 2, San Carlos City, due to grudges from a dispute between rival teenage groups.

Both the victim and the suspect were 17-years-old.

The PRO-NIR assured the public that the case is being handled by the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) in accordance with existing laws and child protection protocols.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office said they are taking the matter very seriously and moving forward with the necessary legal actions as well as intensifying their community-based crime prevention initiatives.

While the incident did not occur within school premises, the PRO-NIR highlighted the importance of early intervention, strong parental guidance, and sustained collaboration among schools, communities, and law enforcement in preventing youth violence.

They stressed the critical role of early reporting and timely intervention in preventing conflicts from escalating into more serious incidents.

While they acknowledged the schools' own administrative systems, disciplinary mechanisms, and student welfare programs, the PRO-NIR noted that police involvement is intended to support and complement these efforts, never to replace or supplant the authority and responsibilities of educational institutions.

They stressed that the presence of law enforcement in schools should foster security and confidence, not fear or intimidation.

Any police action within school premises shall be undertaken only when necessary, in close coordination with school authorities, and in strict adherence to established policies, child protection measures, and legal safeguards, the PRO-NIR said.

The PRO-NIR recognized concerns that increased engagement between law enforcement and educational institutions may be misconstrued as the "militarization" of schools.

They emphasized that this is neither the intention nor the approach of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as school officials remain the primary authorities in maintaining discipline, promoting student welfare, and ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment.

“The PNP's role is centered on prevention, preparedness, and partnership, focusing on strengthening coordination with schools, conducting awareness campaigns, engaging the youth through community programs, assisting in emergency preparedness initiatives, and helping identify potential risks before they develop into acts of violence.”