The Department of Education (DepEd) has condemned the killing of a high school teacher in Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur.

“DepEd denounces this senseless act of violence against our teacher and implores concerned authorities to heighten efforts in ensuring the safety and security of our educators and our communities,” DepEd said.

“The Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and colleagues of the victim,” it said further.

DepEd called on the police to arrest the perpetrators fast and bring them to justice.

The police said the 36-year-old victim was heading home from school when he was shot dead by the suspect along the national highway. The suspect was riding a black motorcycle and was wearing a black jacket.

The teacher sustained gunshot wounds in the back. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead after 30 minutes.

Investigators have already identified persons of interest.

“Kaila ra gyud kaayo (sa biktima ang suspek). Gipadayon pa namo ang imbestisasyon aron ma-plastar og maayo ang ebidensya. Sa part sa victim amo jud pong tagaan og hustisya. Amoang paningkamutan ug gisaad sa ilaha nga ma-file gyud namo ning kaso,” Mahayag Municipal Police Station Acting Chief of Police, Major Renante Benitez, said.