DepEd condemns killing of Grade 7 student in Laguna

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday strongly denounced the killing of a Grade 7 student at Castor Alviar National High School in Masili, Calamba City in Laguna.

In a statement, DepEd said it is extending its condolences to the family of the victim, identified by the police as Mark Anthony Miranda, 15, adding school officials have already reached out to the family for the necessary financial assistance for medical and burial expenses.

The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Calamba City, in close coordination with the local Philippine National Police (PNP), is currently investigating the incident, the department said.

The Castor Alviar National High School will also coordinate with other agencies to conduct psychological debriefing to address the traumatic effects of the incident to learners and school personnel, and look into strengthening security

According to the police, Miranda was shot in the head noontime of Thursday, July 4, after the suspect climbed the school's barricade.

School officials and personnel had immediately sought the help of barangay officials and the police, and rushed the victim to the nearest hospital.

Miranda passed away at 4 p.m. of the same day.  —Jessica Bartolome/KBK, GMA News