Police to file charges vs Oton teacher accused of abuse

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Oton Municipal Police Station is set to file criminal charges on October 27 against a teacher accused of sexually harassing and abusing two students from Oton National High School.

Police Master Sergeant Maria Elena Doliguez, head of the Women and Children’s Protection Desk, told Daily Guardian on Friday that the suspect will face charges for violating Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.

According to Doliguez, the police have already received the medico-legal and psychological evaluation results of the two victims, both minors aged 13 and 14.

The alleged incident of sexual harassment occurred in August this year.

Doliguez urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information about the case online and instead encourage potential victims to report directly to authorities or the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) in Iloilo vowed to uphold a zero-tolerance policy against any form of abuse in schools.

In a statement on Friday, DepEd-Iloilo expressed grave concern over the reported incidents and assured the public that the case is being handled with “utmost seriousness and urgency.”

“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of all learners, teachers, and stakeholders within our educational community,” the statement said.

The division said it is coordinating with law enforcement and other concerned agencies to ensure due process and proper legal and administrative actions are taken.

DepEd-Iloilo emphasized that while accountability is paramount, the rights of teachers to a fair and impartial investigation under Republic Act 4670, or the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers, must also be respected.

“While we pursue justice for any wrongdoing, we also recognize the right of our educators to due process and protection from undue public judgment,” it added.

The agency urged the public, especially social media users, to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could cause further harm or stigmatization to those involved.

DepEd-Iloilo also said psychosocial support is being extended to affected students, and confidential reporting channels remain open for anyone with relevant information.

“DepEd-Iloilo stands firm in its zero-tolerance policy against any form of abuse. We remain committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and nurturing learning environment for all,” it added.