THE DEPARTMENT of Education (DepEd) on Monday said it will conduct a review of its health policies following the death of a Grade 4 learner in Cavite during a routine deworming activity.

The activity took place at the Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City on July 2, conducted in coordination with the City Health Office.

“We are committed to fully understanding what happened, and are working closely with health authorities as they investigate,” DepEd said in a statement.

“DepEd is also taking this opportunity to review our own health and safety protocols, to ensure the well-being of every learner.”

The agency sent its sympathies to the bereaved family and friends of the learner. Various interventions and assistance are also underway to uphold the safety and well-being of the affected family and other students.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and the entire school community,” it said.

“We are providing the necessary emotional, psychological, and logistical support to the family during this difficult time. We want to assure everyone that the safety and well-being of our learners remain our highest priority.”

The agency urged the public to rely solely on verified information from health experts following the tragic event.

DepEd Cavite and the school assured close coordination with local authorities to uphold the safety, health, and lives of their learners.

“To all those who are equally saddened, as well as those alarmed, anxious, even those who are infuriated by the unfortunate event, of which no one certainly wished to happen, rest assured, the DepEd Cavite Province and the school administration concerned, are not standing by idly and are continuously making efforts in reaching out to extend our immeasurable depth of sympathy and prayers to the bereaved family and loved ones of our departed pupil,” they said in a separate statement. (PNA)