THE DEPARTMENT of Education National Capital Region ordered follow-up stress debriefing sessions to students and teachers who witnessed the fatal stabbing incident at the Culiat High School in Quezon City, which resulted in the death of a Grade 7 student.

The witnesses already underwent an initial psychological first aid in the aftermath of the fatal stabbing against the victim, a native of Jolo Sulu, last Friday at around 5:45 a.m. inside the school compound by a fellow minor student.

DepEd-NCR condoled with the family of the victim.

“We are deeply saddened and disturbed that violent incident such as this happened among our students inside the school which is supposed to be a safe place,” it said in a statement.

The Schools Division Office in Quezon City earlier reported the suspected student is already under the custody of authorities.

DepEd-NCR through the Schools Division Office-QC and Culiat High School, shall provide assistance to the family of the victim.

The Regional Interim Learners Rights and Protection Section in coordination with the Division Child Protection Unit, and the School Child Protection Committee will come up with appropriate intervention mechanisms for the CICL student and shall facilitate for his continuous education through alternative modes.

In the aftermath of the violent incident inside the school, DepEd-NCR enjoins administrators, teachers, non-teaching personnel, parents, students, and all stakeholders to work together in raising and educating children to become peace-loving and responsible members of the community.

DepEd-NCR will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of learners in school.