DepEd probes alleged child abuse by teacher in Tondo, reiterates zero tolerance

The Department of Education said it has launched an investigation into an alleged child abuse case following the arrest of a Manila teacher accused of forcing a student to eat a cockroach, and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on violence in schools.

In a statement on Thursday, DepEd said the Schools Division Office of Manila received a report from a parent regarding the alleged incident.

The complaint was also elevated to the DepEd Central Office through the Learner Rights and Protection Division (LRPD) via the Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline.

“Under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, the Department of Education enforces a clear zero tolerance policy against any form of violence or abuse against learners,” DepEd said, stressing that any act that harms a child has “no place in our schools.”

DepEd said the concerned field office has been directed to take immediate measures to protect the learner, including class adjustments, the provision of psychosocial support, and close monitoring of the child’s well-being.

The department added that a parallel inquiry is underway to address the allegation of molestation, with the aim of ensuring that all learners involved are protected and properly assisted.

“DepEd ensures that the ongoing investigation is being handled swiftly and fairly,” the agency said, noting that appropriate administrative and legal action will be taken against those found accountable, in accordance with the law and due process.

DepEd reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the safety, dignity, and rights of every learner as the investigation continues.

Police earlier said the alleged incident occurred on October 25, 2025, inside the school premises, after the teacher was reportedly caught by a male student molesting another student inside a school restroom. Authorities said the female minor allegedly involved in the molestation incident did not file a complaint.

In November, however, the male student who was allegedly forced to eat a cockroach filed a complaint, prompting authorities to pursue a child abuse case against the teacher. The accused has since posted bail amounting to P120,000. —AOL, GMA Integrated News