MANILA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday expressed its condolences to the family of the eight learners who died in a road crash in Boljoon, Cebu.
In a statement, the DepEd said it has received reports that the learners and a parent died while on their way to a district athletic meet on Friday.
The DepEd added the victims were on a mini dump truck, together with 31 other learners, two teachers, a parent from Nangka and San Antonio Elementary Schools.
According to initial reports, the truck lost its brakes and fell off a ravine.
"The regional director immediately instructed the Schools Division Superintendent of Cebu province to personally visit the site and attend to the needs of the victims," the DepEd said.
The victims were brought to the neighboring district hospitals in Boljoon, Vincente Sotto, Carcar, and Oslob while 12 learners with minor bruises were allowed to go home.
Through a memorandum, DepEd's regional office appealed to its field units to provide the victims financial assistance.
The DepEd urged its partner government agencies and local government units to ensure the safety of roads and vehicles to avoid similar incidents.
It also reminded its officials to always prioritize the safety of learners, especially in activities that require them to travel outside of school premises. (PNA)
