Classes Suspended in Cotabato Amid Shooting Incident
Classes have been suspended for the rest of the week in public elementary and high schools in Barangay Agriculture, Midsayap town, Cotabato province, following the shooting of a school principal. The suspension affects both elementary and national high schools, with classes halted until Friday, August 15.
Local officials reported that the shooting of the school head has deeply shaken the community. The incident prompted immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Details of the Shooting Incident
According to community members, Arlyn Alcebar, 54, principal of Agriculture Elementary School, was shot on Tuesday morning while driving her Toyota Rush vehicle (plate number NBG-5535). She was about to enter the school premises when two unidentified individuals on a motorbike fired at her.
Authorities are investigating the attack, which has been described by local leaders as a brazen and cowardly act. Alcebar was recently transferred to Barangay Agriculture school at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. Previously, she served as principal of Salunayan Elementary School in the same town.
Psychosocial Support for Students and Staff
The schools division superintendent, Romelito Flores, announced that a psychosocial debriefing will be held on campus. This will provide emotional support to students and teachers affected by the traumatic event. The initiative aims to restore a sense of safety and normalcy within the school community.
Calls for Justice and Security
Flores condemned the attack, emphasizing that schools are legally recognized as zones of peace and learning. He urged law enforcement agencies to swiftly identify and apprehend the perpetrators. “This brazen attack is a criminal offense and a flagrant assault on the sanctity of schools,” he said.
He also expressed the full support of the Schools Division of Cotabato for the victim, her family, and the entire school community. “The division will extend full cooperation to authorities in the pursuit of justice, for impunity has no place in a civilized society,” Flores added.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
Community members expressed concern over the incident but remain hopeful that justice will prevail. Local leaders stressed the importance of maintaining peace and security within educational institutions to protect students and educators alike.
Security measures are expected to be reviewed and strengthened in the coming days to prevent similar incidents. Meanwhile, classes will remain suspended as the investigation continues and support programs are implemented.
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