DepEd condemns Davao del Sur ambush that killed seventh grader

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday strongly condemned the ambush of Kimlawis National High School students in Davao del Sur, which resulted in the killing of seventh grader Jimboy Linkanay.

DepEd released a statement a few days after a group of unidentified gunmen opened fire on a truck ferrying students from the Damsu cultural festival in Kiblawan.

Linkanay, the lone fatality, was shot in the chest and thigh.

"DepEd offers its sincerest condolences to Lingkanay family, and enjoins everyone to pray for the speedy recovery of the injured students," DepEd said.

At least eight passengers were also injured in the shooting, including the driver.

According to the statement, Kimlawis National High School principal Felix Calipsan confirmed that five of the injured were his students.

"The Department remains firm in denouncing all forms of violence, threats, and attacks against its students, teachers, officials, and personnel," the statement said.

"It further reiterates its call for constant vigilance and the protection of their safety and well-being inside and outside of school," it added.

The DepEd hoped that the ongoing investigation will be able to "identify the perpetrators, determine the motive, and let true and lasting justice prevail."

Police Chief Inspector Erich Requilman, head of Kiblawan police, said in a previous report that the attack was a possible result of a tribal war.

"According kasi sa mga matatanda, mga B'laan 'yung mga umuwi doon. At mayroon silang pangayaw dati pa," he said. — Margaret Claire Layug/RSJ, GMA News