The Department of Education on Thursday, 18 December, reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on violence in schools as it conducts an investigation into an alleged abuse incident involving a teacher in Tondo, Manila, who was accused of forcing a student to eat a cockroach.

In a statement, DepEd Chief Media Relations Officer Dennis Legaspi said the Schools Division Office of Manila received a report from a parent regarding an alleged case of child abuse.

“Under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, the Department of Education enforces a clear zero tolerance policy against any form of violence or abuse against learners,” Legaspi said.

“Any act that harms a child has no place in our schools, and those found accountable will face appropriate administrative and legal consequences in accordance with law and due process,” he added.

Legaspi said the complaint was also received by the DepEd central office through its Learner Rights and Protection Division via the Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline.

“The concerned field office has been directed to take immediate action to protect the learner, including class adjustments, psychosocial support, and close monitoring of the child’s well being,” he said.

“DepEd ensures that the ongoing investigation is being handled swiftly and fairly. A simultaneous inquiry regarding the alleged molestation is being conducted with the end view that all learners involved are protected and assisted,” Legaspi added, stressing that the agency “remains fully committed to safeguarding the safety, dignity, and rights of every learner.”

Police earlier arrested the 52-year-old male teacher after he allegedly forced a Grade 7 student to eat a cockroach and threatened the child’s life.

The alleged abuse occurred on 25 October inside the school premises after the teacher was reportedly caught by a male student molesting another pupil inside a school restroom. The female minor allegedly involved did not file a complaint.

However, the male student who was allegedly forced to eat a cockroach filed a complaint, prompting authorities to pursue a child abuse case against the teacher. The suspect was arrested on 12 December and later released on P120,000 bail on Tuesday, 16 December.