Teacher hits pupil with broomstick

CEBU, Philippines - A public elementary school teacher in Ginatilan town will be facing investigation for allegedly hitting a pupil with a broomstick in the head.

Josetita Lopez, Grade I class adviser in Manggako Elementary School, was accused by Pabiana Dugaduga of hitting her six-year-old grandson in the head last Friday.

In a report over TV5, Dugaduga alleged that the teacher tried to ask the pupil not to tell about what had happened.

“Ay’g saba dong ha? Nga gilabay tika, ingna lang nga nahulog ka,” Dugaduga quoted what the teacher reportedly said as relayed to her by the victim.

In the same television report, Lopez admitted throwing broomstick at the victim. According to her, she lost her temper because the class was very noisy.

School principal Artemio Balingtang said the teacher has to face the consequences of her action. Balingtang said teachers are not supposed to hurt their students. In fact, the Department of Education strongly prohibits even the shouting at the student when reprimanding.

“Dili ko kadupa ani kay nasamad naman ang bata,” Balingtang said.

According to him, he will endorse the incident to the DepEd district office in Ginatilan. Balingtang admitted that it was not the first time that Lopez was complained of physical abuse to her pupils. In fact, the latest incident is already her fourth time and reportedly the worst.

Dr. Susana Velocura, DepEd district supervisor in Ginatilan and principal of the Ginatilan Central School, said that she is waiting for the formal complaint from the victim.

“Kung unsay dangatan sa investigation we will sent it to regional director Ricaredo Borgonia,” Velocura said.  (FREEMAN)