MANILA, Philippines -- A 14-year-old student was taken into police custody after he allegedly fatally stabbed his Grade 9 classmate, 13, during a confrontation inside Las Piñas National High School on Friday, police said.
Las Piñas City police chief Col. Fermin Armendarez III said investigators were determining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Armendarez said the two students figured in a verbal altercation on the fourth floor of the school before the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim.
The victim was rushed to the Las Piñas District Hospital but was declared dead by attending physicians at 4:53 p.m.
In a statement, the Schools Division Office of Las Piñas City said it was coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP), local government officials and village authorities in conducting a thorough and impartial investigation.
It added that school officials were also reviewing campus safety and security measures.
The school also urged the public to "exercise caution and responsibility when using social media," while the investigation is underway.
"We urge everyone to refrain from sharing sensitive or unverified information, photos, or videos that could interfere with the investigation and/or add to the distress of those involved and their families," it said.
The school is prepared to support the emotional and psychological needs of our students, teachers, and staff, with psychological first aid, psychosocial support and other interventions being provided.
"Amid this difficult situation, LPNHS remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the safety, security, and well-being of every student, teacher, and staff," they said.
The Department of Education has yet to issue a statement regarding this matter.
While the school said the incident was not related to any shooting threats, it marked another case of growing violence in school campuses following the mass shooting in Tacloban City and other stabbing incidents in Cavite and Zamboanga City.
