THE Department of Justice on Thursday directed its prosecutors in Antipolo City to assist in the investigation and case build-up on the incident involving a 14-year-old Grade 5 pupil who died of internal bleeding more than a week after his teacher allegedly slapped him.
“Child abuse in any form is an abhorrent violation of children’s rights and a crime that should never be tolerated. Children, especially learners, deserve a safe and nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive without fear of abuse,” the DOJ said. It was discovered that on September 20, 2023, Gumikib was allegedly slapped by his teacher and was admitted to the hospital six days after his condition deteriorated.
The DOJ also reminded teachers “that they hold a position of trust and responsibility” in a child’s life, thus, any abuse of this trust “is a betrayal of the highest order.”