MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday said it has directed the Office of the City Prosecutor of Antipolo City to coordinate with law enforcement agencies on the investigation and case build-up on the death of Francis Gumikib, the 14-year-old Antipolo schoolchild who died after he was allegedly slapped by his teacher.

In a statement, the DOJ also condemned any act of violence and abuse of children.

“Child abuse in any form is an abhorrent violation of children’s rights and a crime that should never be tolerated. Children, especially learners, deserve a safe and nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive without fear of abuse,” it said.

“The DOJ would like to remind teachers/educators that they hold a position of trust and responsibility in a child’s life. Thus, any abuse of this trust is a betrayal of the highest order,” the DOJ said.

“Likewise, under the Department of Education Child Protection Policy, there is zero tolerance for any form of abuse and violence. Corporal punishment is prohibited, and the practice thereof may subject the erring teacher/educator to administrative and criminal proceedings.”

Last Sept. 20, Gumikib, a Grade 5 student of Peñafrancia Elementary School in Antipolo City, was allegedly slapped by his teacher causing the victim to experience severe headache, dizziness, earache, and vomiting.

On Sept. 26, the student was admitted to the hospital when his condition worsened. The doctors found internal bleeding in the victim’s brain, which eventually caused him to go into a coma.

Gumikib died on October 2. (PNA)