The Department of Education (DepEd) Cavite Province has confirmed the death of a Grade 4 pupil following a routine deworming activity conducted at Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City.
In a statement posted on social media, the school administration expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
"The administration of DepEd Cavite Province, in general, and Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex faculty and staff, in particular, are deeply saddened about the death of a Grade 4 pupil following a deworming activity conducted within the premises of the above-mentioned school," the school said.
DepEd CALABARZON said it is coordinating with relevant authorities and will fully cooperate with any investigation into the incident.
"We are providing the necessary emotional, psychological, and logistical support to the family during this difficult time. We want to assure everyone that the safety and well-being of our learners remain our highest priority," the regional office said.
The school administration also extended its condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that appropriate assistance and support would be provided.
In a separate statement, DepEd said the deworming activity was conducted on July 2 in coordination with the City Health Office. Several learners reportedly experienced adverse symptoms after receiving the deworming medication, including the Grade 4 pupil who later died.
According to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort, the child went home after the activity complaining of vomiting, headache, and stomach pain after allegedly being given a deworming tablet at school.
"On July 2, 2026, the school held a routine deworming activity in coordination with the City Health Office. Several learners felt unwell afterward, and by July 3, the Grade 4 learner who later passed away had been hospitalized after experiencing vomiting. Based on initial medical findings, the cause of death was linked to an infection that led to septic shock," DepEd said.
The agency emphasized that it is working closely with health authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident while reviewing its own health and safety protocols.
"We are committed to understanding fully what happened, and are working closely with health authorities as they investigate. DepEd is also taking this opportunity to review our own health and safety protocols, to ensure the wellbeing of every learner," the department added.
DepEd also appealed to the public to respect the privacy of the grieving family and to rely only on verified information from health authorities as the investigation continues.
