The Department of Education (DepEd) has called for strong enforcement of security measures in schools to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school personnel.

"We call on our partners in the community to strengthen school security protocols, and uphold our shared duty to make every school a zone of peace," DepEd said in a statement issued on Friday.

The Department said it strongly condemned the recent act of violence that occurred at Sta. Rosa Integrated School in Nueva Ecija, which resulted in two casualties.

"We stand in full solidarity with the learners, teachers, and the entire school community affected by this appalling incident," the agency added.

DepEd commended the swift response of the Schools Division Office of Nueva Ecija in working with local authorities to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

"We likewise support the ongoing efforts to provide assistance to the families of the victims," it said.

The Department reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protect the welfare of every learner, teacher, and school personnel.

"Our schools must be sanctuaries of safety and learning. Any form of violence, especially within or near school grounds, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," the agency said.

A 15-year-old female student was killed by her ex-boyfriend who shot her inside a classroom in Santa Rosa Integrated School in Nueva Ecija on Wednesday morning, 7 August.

Authorities said the victim was shot in the neck after the 18-year-old suspect entered the classroom without provocation, and then shot himself using a .22 caliber firearm. NEIL ALCOBER