DepEd monitors investigation into 2 students' death during Isabela school event
The Department of Education said it is working with the local government of Cauayan, Isabela, and local police in determining facts surrounding the deaths of two students at a school in Isabela on Saturday, Oct. 3.
"DepEd is taking the necessary steps to establish the facts surrounding the incident and is coordinating with the local government and law enforcement authorities," it said in a statement.
"A fact-finding investigation is underway, including a review of the activity, safety measures, equipment used, and the roles of those involved. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings."
The tragic incident took place during a fun run event at Cauayan South Central School. According to the report of Isabela Provincial Police Office Director P/Col. Manuel Bringas, an eight-year-old and a seven-year-old, both students at the school, were declared dead on the spot after they were electrocuted while playing in a mound of bubbles during the event.
In a statement released Saturday morning, Cauayan South Central School also expressed "its profound sadness over the tragic loss following an unforeseen incident within the school premises."
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, relatives, friends, and the entire school community during this difficult time," the statement read.
The school asked parents, learners, and stakeholders to "refrain from spreading unverified information, assumptions, or speculations that may further burden the grieving family" as authorities continue their investigation.
"The school remains committed to the safety, welfare, and well-being of every learner," the statement continued.
Two other students, Grade 9 and Grade 6, were rushed to the Cauayan Medical Specialist Hospital and Cauayan District Hospital after they sustained injuries at the same event. The Grade 9 student has been discharged after receiving treatment for hand and arm injuries. The Grade 6 pupil remains in the hospital for observation.
According to the police report, at around 6:20 a.m., the students were having fun surrounded by foam and bubbles when an electrical short circuit occurred, which produced a ground fault. The four affected students were playing near the bubble machines when the incident took place.
Elsa Dela Peña, the grandmother of one of the deceased students, told 98.5 i-FM Cauayan in a video interview on Saturday that her grandchild was in the hospital morgue.
According to Dela Peña, her grandchild just celebrated a birthday on Oct. 1.
Subsequent photos showed House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" G. Dy on the school grounds as he inspected the site of the incident, as reported by 92.9 Brigada News Cauayan City. Dy previously served as mayor and vice mayor of Cauayan, Isabela.
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