DepEd seeks probe of Bukidnon school shooting in Bukidnon

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) has called for an investigation into a shooting incident at a public elementary school in Bukidnon that left a teacher wounded.

“DepEd sternly enjoins the community, local officials and law enforcement agencies to work closely in ensuring the safety of schools, learners and teachers,” the DepEd added.

Zhydee Cabañelez of the Dalit Elementary School in Valencia City was wounded when masked men who entered her classroom on Tuesday opened fire.

Her husband, also a teacher who was with her during the shooting, was unscathed.

The DepEd Valencia City office conducted stress-debriefing to pupils, parents and teachers of the school.

Local officials said they would assign civilian volunteers to serve as security officers during school hours and to accompany teachers to and from the school.

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) condemned the shooting, saying the victim was an active member of the organization.

The group also condemned the arrest of Digna Mateo, its coordinator in Bulacan, also on Tuesday, over an alleged murder case.

The ACT said Mateo, whom police accused of being a former member of the New People’s Army, was subjected to surveillance, harassment and intimidation.