TWO SEPARATE violent incidents against students have raised concerns over youth safety in Davao City.
In the first incident, a 16-year-old student identified as Jeric was assaulted by a group of youths, including two identified as children in conflict with the law (CICL), on Saturday, Oct. 12. Jeric, a student at a private school in Sasa, was walking with two friends when the attack occurred.
According to Jeric, the assault began when two individuals, Jumamoy and Morentin, deliberately bumped into him with a motorcycle. Jumamoy and Morentin, along with two other passengers on the motorcycle, then physically assaulted him.
Jeric reported that more than ten individuals participated in the attack, leaving him with bruises and injuries.
Speaking at the Davao Peace and Security press conference on Oct. 16, Department of Education XI spokesperson Jenielito Atillo stated that an investigation into the incident is ongoing. “Just like the case in Davao de Oro, the sanction will depend on the result of the investigation,” Atillo said, referencing a similar incident. He also highlighted the Department of Education’s programs aimed at countering bullying.
In a separate incident, a 19-year-old student identified as Mheljhun was stabbed at Grantio residence in Barangay Sasa on Sunday, Oct. 13, around 7:30 p.m.
According to police reports, Mheljhun was drinking with a 17-year-old man when an altercation occurred.
The suspect briefly left and returned to the residence, where he allegedly began bullying Mheljhun. This escalated into a physical confrontation where the victim was stabbed in the upper chest.
Mheljhun was rushed to Southern Philippines Medical Center for treatment. The 17-year-old suspect was apprehended by the police and is currently in custody.
Photo courtesy of DCPO
