DepEd Investigates Heartbreaking Death of Grade 4 Learner After School Health Program
DEWORMING – The Department of Education has confirmed the tragic passing of a Grade 4 pupil following a school-based deworming program, leaving many parents and communities seeking answers.
The Department of Education (DepEd) has confirmed the death of a Grade 4 pupil following a routine school-based deworming activity conducted at Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City, Cavite.
Based on an official statement from DepEd, the deworming program was carried out on July 2 in partnership with the City Health Office as part of the agency’s annual health initiative for learners. Following the activity, several pupils reportedly experienced discomfort, including the Grade 4 learner who later passed away.
Based on a report from Philstar, the child developed a fever and severe stomach pain after the deworming activity and was immediately brought to a hospital for treatment. Despite medical intervention, the pupil died the following day, July 3.
Initial medical findings indicated that the child’s death was caused by septic shock resulting from an infection.
Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
“We are committed to understanding fully what happened, and are working closely with health authorities as they investigate,” the agency said.
“DepEd is also taking this opportunity to review our own health and safety protocols, to ensure the well-being of every learner.”
The department also urged the public to offer prayers and support to the grieving family while encouraging everyone to rely only on verified information released by health experts as the investigation continues.
For its part, DepEd-Cavite assured the public that it is prepared to cooperate with any legal proceedings and official inquiries related to the incident.
“To all those who are equally saddened, as well as those alarmed, anxious, even those who are infuriated by the unfortunate event, of which no one certainly wished to happen, rest assured, the DepEd Cavite Province and the school administration concerned are not standing idly and are continuously making efforts in reaching out to extend our immeasurable depth of sympathy and prayers to the bereaved family and loved ones of our departed pupil,” it said in a statement.
“We are likewise in constant coordination with the proper authorities concerned regarding the unfortunate incident.”
DepEd explained that its annual school-based mass deworming program is designed to help reduce soil-transmitted helminth infections among eligible learners. The initiative is implemented only for pupils whose parents or guardians have provided signed consent forms.
The department also emphasized that learners undergo health screening before receiving the medication. Pupils with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or those currently taking medications are temporarily excluded from the deworming activity until they are medically fit to participate.
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