'Punished' by teacher, Palawan student walks on his knees

A Palawan-based teacher is facing possible dismissal after allegedly making a student walk on his knees and kiss the ground, supposedly as a punishment for hitting the teacher during a class activity. Blind-folded in a Youtube video that aired on GMA News’ “24 Oras" newscast Wednesday, the student is reported to be fourth-year high school at Roxas National Comprehensive High School in Roxas, Palawan.
For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV The Department of Education (DepEd) is investigating the matter as both the student and teacher have issued sworn statements, “24 Oras" reported. “Ang sabi niya, ginawa niya ito para daw po matapos iyong kanyang problema at para ‘di na siya kasuhan ng teacher," RNCHS Principal Norma Garcillana said in an interview with GMA News. In another interview, DepEd Undersecretary Albert Muyot said the teacher faces sanctions ranging from forfeiture of benefits to dismissal. The teacher may also be disqualified from taking on any government job, added Muyot. GMA News was able to reach the mother of the student, who refused to give a statement. Muyot said that even if the student hits his teacher, corporal punishment remains unjustified. “Ang pinakamahusay na paraan upang madisiplina ang bata ay magbigay ka ng mga ehemplo, mga positive na inputs doon sa bata. Ang pagpaparusa kasi, lalo na ang physical punishment, ay hindi magdudulot ng ating inaatim na matuto ang bata," he said. — PE/VS, GMA News