The Department of Education’s (DepEd) Schools Division Office (SDO) of Iloilo has appealed for public restraint and responsible online behavior as it conducts an impartial probe into allegations that a teacher from Oton National High School molested two students in separate incidents.
In a statement on Friday, October 24, the SDO said it is treating the allegations with “utmost seriousness and urgency,” emphasizing its commitment to protect learners’ welfare while ensuring fairness and due process for the accused teacher.
The division said it is coordinating with law enforcement to ensure that proper legal and administrative actions are taken.
It also assured that accountability will be upheld for any wrongdoing, while the rights of teachers to a fair and impartial probe will be respected.
“We urge everyone to exercise sobriety and refrain from making rash judgments that may further traumatize or stigmatize the individuals involved,” the office said, warning against speculation and trial by publicity on social media.
Psychosocial support has been extended to affected learners, while DepEd encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward through proper channels, promising compassion and confidentiality.
In a separate statement, Oton National High School said it is addressing the matter “through the proper legal and administrative processes” and trusts that the investigation will be conducted “thoroughly, fairly, and without bias.”
Meanwhile, the Oton Municipal Police Station’s Women and Children Protection Desk is preparing evidence and witness statements for the filing of charges against the teacher under Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.