PASIG CITY, March 1, 2019 – The Department of Education (DepEd) is deeply saddened by the news of a vehicular accident involving 10 students of Basay National High School and their coach morning of March 1 in Zambonaguita, Negros Oriental.

The victims were aboard a public utility van on their way home to Bayawan following a competition in Cebu when the van collided with an oncoming truck transporting sugar cane. The tragic incident claimed the lives of one Grade 7 learner and four Grade 11 learners. Five other Grade 11 learners and their coach are currently in the hospital.

DepEd, through its Region VII Office and Schools Division Office of Bayawan, is providing the victims and their families with the necessary assistance. Personnel of the said field offices are currently at the hospital to closely monitor the condition of those injured and check any further assistance that can be extended.

The Department extends its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families, and expresses its wholehearted commitment to ensuring that they and the survivors receive adequate support as they go through this difficult time.

END