By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Task Force Kasanag (TFK) called for a probe into the alleged mishandling of a case surrounding the suicide of Ramon Torres National High School (RTNHS) Grade 8 student Eric Hain Demafeliz, who was accused of stealing from the said school.

In a letter to Malacañan Palace, the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), TFK national commander John Chiong urged for a probe into the matter, alleging school officials of mishandling the case.

He noted, the victim’s family requested his assistance.

The TFK leader claims Demafeliz was accused of stealing a tablet from the school and was forced into a confession by school staff.

“There [was] no due process given to him by the teacher,” Chiong added.

He said, after being brought to the Bago City Police Station, the student was subjected to harassment from teachers and students, leading him to take his own life.

Chiong is questioning how RTNHS staff handled the case, saying school staff should have contacted the student’s parents before involving the police.

He believes involved school officials may face administrative charges of conduct unbecoming of a public servant.

The victim’s family, meanwhile, are demanding justice./DGB, WDJ