The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of an eight-year-old Grade 3 pupil amid allegations that the child had been bullied at a public school.
Sta. Ana Police Station commander Major Marc Hedssel Culaste said investigators are still awaiting the child’s complete medical records, including ultrasound results, to determine the exact cause of death. Initial findings indicated that the child suffered brain injury and brain failure, although the child had reportedly complained of stomach pain before passing away.
According to Culaste, the child was first taken to a traditional healer on July 19 and was later brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) on July 21, where the child was declared dead on the same day.
He said the victim’s mother reported the incident to the Sta. Ana Police Station on July 22, prompting police to immediately conduct an initial investigation, followed by a more detailed inquiry.
Police confirmed that both the deceased child and the other child allegedly involved in the incident are eight years old and Grade 3 pupils.
Culaste said investigators are also looking into claims circulating on social media alleging that the child had been elbowed, punched, and kicked. However, he emphasized that these allegations have yet to be verified.
He urged the public to refrain from making conclusions while authorities continue gathering evidence.
The police official stressed that the other child should not yet be labeled a suspect, noting that investigators are strictly following standard operating procedures and will base their findings solely on evidence rather than online claims.
Culaste said the DCPO is carrying out a swift but thorough investigation and will not issue any premature conclusions until all supporting documents, witness accounts, and medical findings have been evaluated.
He added that only the attending physician can officially determine the child’s cause of death, and police have been instructed to coordinate closely with medical personnel handling the case.
Investigators also asked the victim’s family if they would consent to an autopsy to help establish the cause of death. However, the family declined the request, citing their desire to preserve the sanctity of the child’s remains.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the child’s death and whether any criminal liability may arise from the incident.
