LEGAZPI CITY: The Department of Education (DepEd) strongly condemned the crime — theft and sexual abuse — committed against four elementary school teachers from Ocampo, Camarines Sur, who were preparing for the school year 2022-2023. 'We denounce any acts of violence and injustice toward our teachers, who have been showing their dedication and effort to deliver equitable, resilient, inclusive, and quality education to our learners,' the DepEd statement said. Due to this, the DepEd Central Office instructed the field office in Bicol to coordinate with the authorities for assistance throughout the investigation. The Education department said it will provide the necessary aid to the victims, including financial assistance and psychosocial intervention. 'We hope our local authorities in Camarines Sur will conduct a swift investigation and bring justice to the family of the victims. We likewise call on our partner agencies in preparation for the upcoming school opening, especially the Philippine National Police, to protect the welfare of our teachers, learners, and parents inside and outside the premises of our schools,' the statement said. The department said it is currently drafting a joint memorandum circular with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Budget and Management to emphasize using the Special Education Fund to hire at least one security personnel per school and for the repair and construction of school buildings.
