DepEd mourns passing of Grade 3 student in Davao City after being hit with notebook

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Saturday mourned the passing of a Grade 3 student in Davao City after being hit with a notebook.

"The Department of Education is deeply saddened by the passing of a Grade 3 learner from Lapulapu Elementary School in Agdao District, Davao City. We extend our deepest sympathies to the learner's family and loved ones," the DepEd said in a statement posted on Facebook.

According to a report on 24 Oras on Thursday, an eight-year-old girl in Davao City died after a classmate allegedly hit her on the head with a notebook on Friday, July 17.

The child later suffered body pains for a few days before she was taken to the hospital on Tuesday.

A few hours later, the girl passed away. The victim’s family filed a report at the police station that said she experienced bullying at her school.

Chief of the Sta. Ana Police Station P/Maj. Marc Hedssel Culste said the child was in a fight with another student at the school when she was struck on the head by a notebook. The other child confessed the incident to their teacher, police said.

The DepEd said its Regional Office XI, the Schools Division of Davao City, and the school are coordinating with authorities regarding the incident and are providing assistance to the family of the learner.

"Psychosocial support is also being extended to affected learners and school personnel," the DepEd added.

"DepEd is ensuring that appropriate child protection and administrative processes are carried out in accordance with the law while upholding due process and the rights of all children involved," it said.

Meanwhile, the DepEd appealed to the public to allow the investigation to proceed and await the official findings.

"We also urge everyone to refrain from speculation or sharing unverified information that may cause further pain to the bereaved family, the children involved, and the school community," it said. —KG, GMA News