DepEd probes death of student allegedly slapped by teacher

The Department of Education (DepEd) Calabarzon has ordered a fact-finding investigation into the death of a Grade 5 student in Antipolo City, Francis Jay Gumikib, who died days after allegedly being slapped by his Filipino subject teacher on September 20.

The SDO Antipolo has formed a separate team comprising guidance counselors, health and nutrition representatives, youth formation coordinators, and child protection specialists to provide interventions for both students and teachers involved.

These interventions may include reorientation on the Child Protection Policy and debriefing for concerned individuals.

The involved teacher is currently on official leave, and an alternate teacher has been assigned to handle the classes.

DepEd Calabarzon emphasized the importance of due process, ensuring both parties are heard during the investigation.

The incident and narrative reports have been forwarded to the Office of the Regional Director of DepEd Region IV-A for further action.