The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reminded all schools nationwide to strictly enforce internal security protocols to ensure that campuses remain safe spaces for students, following a stabbing incident that injured several pupils in Cavite.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued the directive after seven elementary students were wounded in an attack inside a private school in General Trias City on Tuesday, June 16.
“I am deeply concerned by this incident because schools should always be safe spaces for learning and development,” Nartatez said.
Based on initial police findings, a 14-year-old Grade 8 student allegedly entered a Grade 5 classroom and attacked pupils using a kitchen knife. The victims sustained serious injuries but are now reported to be in stable condition. Authorities said teachers were in a meeting at the time, leaving the classroom temporarily unattended.
Following the incident, Nartatez ordered the Cavite Provincial Police Office and Police Regional Office 4A to conduct a thorough investigation in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen safety measures in learning institutions.
He also directed police units to increase visibility around schools and surrounding communities to deter similar incidents and reassure students, parents, and school personnel.
“We sympathize with the victims and their families, and we assure the public that the PNP is taking this matter seriously,” Nartatez said. “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.”
The suspect was turned over to social welfare authorities for appropriate intervention, including medical and psychological evaluation, while investigators continue to determine how the weapon was brought inside the school premises.