Abrasions on and around the mouth of “Toto,” a Grade 7 student of Santa Barbara town in the Province of Iloilo, are visible, as of this writing.

Teary-eyed “Toto” told the news team he did not expect that the chewing of a bubble gum while in class, along with a classmate, would lead to an untoward incident. 

“Toto” said he already spat out the chewing gum before the incident happened. However, his classmate continued gnawing on the gum and playfully stuck the gum onto a wooden section of a table.

Another classmate who took notice of the alleged mischievous act complained to the teacher.

The teacher approached “Toto” and his seatmate.

The teacher reportedly held his head and forced him to take the gum back inside his mouth. 

In the process, the wood hit his face and left visible marks of the scrapes.

“Toto” said he felt burning pain prior to the swelling.

He has expressed apprehension on reporting back at school.

The grandmother of the boy who stands as his guardian could not hold back her anger and dismay.

She accompanied her grandchild to the police to report the incident.

“Toto” underwent a medical examination.

The teacher has continued performing tasks at school and has refused an interview.

The Child Protection Committee of the school has convened to investigate on the incident. The result will be submitted to the Department of Education Schools Division of Iloilo.

Moreover, the Women and Children Protection Desk of the Santa Barbara Municipal Police Office has assisted the boy’s family for the filing of appropriate charges against the teacher.