THE DEPARTMENT of Education strongly condemned the murder of a 10-year-old student in Tupi, South Cotabato, as she was heading home from school.

“There is no place for such brutality in our society,” DepEd stated in a release on Saturday (May 11, 2024).

The 44-year-old suspect identified only as Ronald underwent the booking procedure when he allegedly seized the firearm issued to the desk officer.

Ronald is suspected of being involved in the possible rape and murder of the 10-year-old girl after she failed to return home.

The student’s body was discovered in Sitio Lemblisong in the aforementioned barangay.

The Basic Education Department reiterated its call for local authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the safety and security of our communities.

DepEd also extended its deepest condolences to the grieving family, friends, and classmates of the victim.

The agency also expressed gratitude to the Philippine National Police for its prompt response in apprehending the suspected perpetrator.