BACOLOD City — The San Carlos City Police Station is investigating a stabbing incident involving two minors that left a Grade 9 student injured in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, on June 23.
According to police, the incident occurred at around 3:40 p.m. in Teachers Village, Barangay 2.
The victim, a Grade 9 student, sustained a stab wound to the lower right abdomen and was immediately rushed to the San Carlos City Hospital for treatment. Police said the student remains conscious and is currently receiving medical care.
The suspect, a Grade 10 student, was apprehended during a follow-up operation conducted by responding police officers.
Authorities also recovered the bladed weapon allegedly used in the attack.
Initial investigation indicated that the incident may have stemmed from a previous personal grudge. Police reports said a group of youths had allegedly sought to confront individuals they considered rivals when the stabbing occurred.
The San Carlos City Police Station clarified that the incident did not take place inside a school campus. The altercation occurred outside school grounds and after class hours.
The case is being handled by the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), with investigators ensuring strict compliance with child protection laws and juvenile justice procedures, as both the victim and the suspect are minors.
Police officials emphasized that while schools generally remain safe environments for learners, conflicts involving young people may occur outside educational institutions.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it continues to strengthen community-based crime prevention efforts through increased police visibility, youth engagement initiatives, and closer coordination with local government units, schools, parents, and community stakeholders.
The San Carlos City Police Station assured the public that a thorough and impartial investigation is underway and that appropriate charges will be filed against those found responsible in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, Julio Ledesma National High School (JLNHS) confirmed that the victim is one of its Grade 9 learners.
In a statement, the school administration said the student had informed a class adviser of a perceived threat before the incident.
The adviser reportedly instructed the learner to remain inside the campus while efforts were being made to contact the student’s parent or guardian. However, the student allegedly left the school premises despite the precautionary measures.
The school also disclosed that faculty members had conducted classroom discussions on safety, awareness, and learner well-being earlier that day in response to growing concerns over youth violence.
JLNHS said it is fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities and has intensified campus security measures while reviewing its existing safety protocols and intervention programs.
The school likewise urged parents and guardians to maintain close communication with their children and remain attentive to concerns that may affect their safety and well-being.
The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) also called on parents, schools, community leaders, and local officials to remain vigilant and promote peaceful conflict resolution among the youth.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident./PN
