A 13-year-old student was fatally stabbed by his 14-year-old classmate following an argument inside Las Piñas National High School on Friday afternoon, July 31.

Las Piñas City Police chief Col. Fermin Armendarez identified the victim only by the alias “ADO,” a resident of Barangay Daniel Fajardo.

He sustained a stab wound to the left side of his chest and was rushed to Las Piñas District Hospital, where he was declared dead while undergoing treatment.

The suspect, identified only as “MJE,” a resident of Barangay Talon Dos, was taken into custody and later turned over to the Bahay Pag asa youth care facility operated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in line with procedures for children in conflict with the law.

Police said the incident happened around 4:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of the school, in front of Room 401.

Initial investigation showed the two students argued during recess, allegedly over change from a bottled water purchase at the school canteen.

Authorities said the suspect then drew a balisong (folding knife) and stabbed the victim once in the chest before school personnel and responding officers intervened.

Investigators are still determining the circumstances surrounding the incident and the events that led to the fatal stabbing.

In a statement, Las Piñas National High School expressed condolences to the victim’s family and assured students, teachers, and staff that psychological first aid, counseling, and other psychosocial interventions would be provided.

School officials said they are coordinating closely with local authorities and other concerned agencies as the investigation continues.