DepEd calls for vigilance amid student rape cases

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has appealed to parents to be vigilant and proactive in preventing cases of child abuse following a string of rape incidents involving students in different parts of the country.

In a statement, the DepEd said that the community where students live should be proactive in preventing incidents of abuse and exploitation of children.

"The Department of Education (DepEd), the foremost government agency mandated to promote and protect the welfare of young learners, appeals to the community to be increasingly vigilant and proactive in preventing and deterring incidents that result in the abuse, exploitation, and discrimination against children," it said.

The DepEd's appeal came after three incidents of student rape were reported. The first involved a 12-year-old student and her five schoolmates in Barangay Maysilo, Malabon while the second one was in Sta. Maria in Bulacan where a Grade 10 student and five minors were abused. The last case DepEd disclosed was the incident involving an 11-year-old student and four schoolmates in Ajuy, Iloilo.

The education agency said that the legal offices of the respective divisions were already investigating and assessing necessary actions to serve justice to the victims.

"Through the legal office of the respective Schools Division Offices, DepEd is gathering further information to assess the necessary actions to ensure that justice is served and rehabilitation is enforced," it said.

The department also underscored that schools' efforts in instilling values and molding the minds of students should be complemented by parents, guardians, the media and their community.

"The teachers' commitment to instilling in children the proper values and respect for fellow people must be complemented by the guidance of parents and guardians, and by the responsibility of media and of the community," it added.

"The burden of accountability and the necessity to ensure that they develop into upright and productive citizens, lie equally on the shoulders of the education system, the government, and the community," the department also said, as it reaffirmed its commitment to ensure safe and nurturing learning environments for students.