DepEd condemns Batangas student’s slay

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has called for swift justice for a female Grade 8 student who was shot dead on her way to school in Barangay Banyaga in Agoncillo, Batangas on Wednesday.

“DepEd sends its deepest condolences and prayers to the bereaved family and friends of the victim,” the department said in a statement issued on Friday. “There is no place for such a brutal act in our society, moreso against children who we aim to nurture as peace champions and nation builders.”

The 13-year-old victim, identified as Jenny of Banyaga National High School, was walking when an unidentified man armed with a 9mm pistol appeared and shot her in the head.

The victim died at the scene while the suspect escaped on a motorcycle.

“We deplore this heartless act of violence against our learners. We likewise call on local authorities to exhaust all efforts to ensure accountability of the perpetrator and render swift justice,” DepEd said.

The department said it reaffirms its commitment to provide a safe and child-friendly environment in schools for teachers and learners as it urged law enforcement authorities to strengthen security measures to ensure the safety and protection of children around schools.