An altercation at Leyte National High School on Jan. 26 resulted in the death of a 12-year-old student, according to local police reports. Authorities confirmed a 13-year-old student was taken into custody in connection with the stabbing incident, which has prompted statements from education officials regarding safety protocols in schools.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Tacloban City reported that the incident occurred on school grounds. The victim sustained a stab wound and was transported to a local hospital, where the student was later pronounced dead.
In accordance with the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of the Philippines, which exempts minors from criminal liability, the 13-year-old suspect was turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office.
The Department of Education (DepEd) issued a statement expressing condolences to the family of the victim. The department confirmed it was providing psychological support to the students and faculty affected by the event. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte also ordered the DepEd regional office to review the existing safety and security measures within its schools.
“DepEd is committed to ensuring that our schools are safe, and we are working with law enforcement and local government units to address the issue of school violence,” the department’s statement read.
The event in Tacloban follows other reported instances of violence in Philippine educational institutions over the past year. In January 2023, a 13-year-old student died after being stabbed by a fellow student at Culiat High School in Quezon City. In November 2023, authorities in Pangasinan reported that a high school teacher was stabbed and killed by a student.
Discussions on school-related violence have at times included past accounts from public figures. During his presidency, former President Rodrigo Duterte stated on multiple occasions that he shot a classmate at San Beda College of Law in 1972 over alleged bullying.
Following the Tacloban incident, child rights organizations and lawmakers have reiterated calls for a stronger implementation of mental health programs and child protection policies in schools. Officials have stated that investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing are ongoing.
