The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has expressed condolences over the death of a Grade 4 student in Cavite following a deworming activity.
In a statement, the group said nothing can erase the pain caused by the child’s death.
TDC appealed to the public to be fair in their statements and reactions, noting that the proper authorities are already conducting an investigation.
The group said the public should wait for the results of the investigation so that the truth can be established and accountability can be determined through due process.
TDC also stressed that the incident should serve as a wake-up call to reexamine the condition of public schools.
According to the coalition, the lack of essential services and facilities has long been a major challenge in the education system.
It pointed out that many schools do not have enough nurses or other health personnel, forcing teachers to perform duties that are beyond the scope of their profession.
The group argued that responsibilities that should be handled by agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Commission on Elections (COMELEC) continue to be passed on to teachers.
TDC said the incident reflects a deeper problem within the country’s public education system.
“This tragedy, together with the other incidents that have occurred in recent weeks, should not be viewed as isolated events. Rather, they reflect deeper and more systemic problems confronting our public education system. These issues demand urgent action through adequate funding, sufficient personnel, and policies that genuinely safeguard the welfare and safety of every teacher and learner,” it said.
