Grade 9 student stabbed outside Negros Occidental school; suspect arrested

MJ Farrley Ong

A Grade 9 student was hospitalized after being stabbed by a fellow student outside a school in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, police said.

The incident occurred at around 3:40 p.m. on June 23 in Teachers Village, Barangay 2, Sam Carlos City, shortly after classes had ended.

According to the Police Regional Office – Negros Islamd Region, the victim was a 17 year old Grade 9 student, sustained a stab wound on the lower right side of his abdomen.

He was rushed to the San Carlos City Hospital, where he remains conscious while receiving treatment. 

The suspect, a 17 year old Grade 10 student, was arrested following a pursuit operation by the police,

Authorities also recovered the weapon allegedly used in the attack.

Initial investigation indicates that the stabbing grew from an old personal grudge between the two minors.

Police also received reports that a group of youths had attempted to confront individuals they considered rivals before the incident happened.

Authorities clarified that the stabbing did not take place inside the school but in an area outside after school hours.

In a statement, the Schools Division Office of San Carlos City said they immediately coordinated with school officials to ensure the safety of the learners following the incident.

The office disclosed that prior to the incident, the victim had informed a teacher about a possible threat from other students.

School officials reportedly planned to discuss the matter further and advised the student to stay on campus while efforts were made to contact his legal guardians.

However, the student left the school grounds before his legal guardians arrived.

“The incident subsequently occurred” said the Schools Division Office.

Julio Ledesma National High School also confirmed that the stabbing happened outside the campus and said security measures have been strengthened. 

The school added that faculty meetings and student orientations are being conducted to address safety concerns and provide support. 

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacsom described the incident as deeply disturbing and has urged schools to remain vigilant in ensuring student safety.

“Schools are meant to be places of learning, growth and opportunity. They should be environments where students feel safe, respected, and free to purse their education without fear.” Lacson said.

The San Carlos City Police Station continues to investigate the incident.

Appropriate charges are being prepared against the suspect in accordan with the juvenile justice law.