A 20-year-old Grade 11 student in Lanao del Sur was arrested six days after allegedly killing his teacher at Balabagan Trade School for giving him a failing grade. The suspect, identified as “alias Kaizer,” was surrendered by his brother, a police officer in the province.
According to the police, the suspect confessed to the crime and said he was angry with the teacher after receiving a failing grade. On August 4, while entering school in Barangay Narra, Balabagan, the suspect shot teacher Danilo Barba, 34, using a .45 caliber gun. He was alone and riding a motorcycle when the shooting took place.
After the incident, teachers, bystanders, and tricycle drivers identified the suspect. A case of murder was filed against him the next day. Although the suspect said he had no ill will toward other teachers, some teachers who had also given him a failing grade expressed concern for their safety.
Police and school officials met to provide security for teachers especially during enrollment. The Schools Division Office of Lanao del Sur II and the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education also condemned the violence, and called for justice for the deceased teacher.
Officials emphasized that the safety of teachers is important because they are the pillars of the community and guide the future of the youth.
