By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday urged educational institutions nationwide to strictly enforce internal security measures to ensure the safety of students and school personnel.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued the reminder following the June 16 stabbing incident inside a private school in General Trias City, Cavite, that left seven elementary students injured.
“We sympathize with the victims and their families, and we assure the public that the PNP is taking this matter seriously,” Nartatez said in a statement.
“Violence inside educational institutions is unacceptable, and we will work closely with school authorities and local government officials to prevent similar incidents from happening again,” he added.
Police said a 14-year-old Grade 8 student entered a Grade 5 classroom and attacked several pupils with a kitchen knife. The victims sustained serious injuries but are now in stable condition.
Initial reports indicated that teachers were attending a meeting at the time, leaving the classroom temporarily unattended.
Nartatez directed the Cavite Provincial Police Office and Police Regional Office 4A to conduct a full investigation.
The PNP chief also ordered local police units to increase visibility in and around schools to help prevent similar incidents.
The suspect was turned over to local social welfare officials for medical and psychological evaluation. Authorities are investigating how the suspect sneaked the weapon into the school premises. (PNA)
