Family Appeals For 'Truth' After Two Teens Found Dead In A Public High School In Taguig

Trigger warning: This may be difficult for some readers because this article talks about an ongoing investigation about two teens' deaths. We are also withholding the name of the other minor, pending their family’s approval. 

The family of one of the students found dead in a public school in Taguig has appealed to the public, in a bid to search for possible witnesses on the case initially assumed by many as suicide. 

The victims, aged 13 and 15, were enrolled in Signal Village National High School, both residents of Barangay Central Signal Village in Taguig City.

Rhea Manalo, a first cousin of one of the students, 13-year-old Irish Sheen Manalo, granted Smart Parenting permission to share her post, "Our family is asking and begging for your help— to all the classmates, teachers, and friends of Irish Sheen Manalo and her classmate, (name withheld) come forward and tell the truth.

She also called on the Department of Education and local authorities to look into the case.

Rhea added, "My cousin was an honor student and part of the GSP. She’s at Grade 8, Gold Section. She will not dare kill herself."

The two female students, a Grade 8 and Grade 10 learner, were found dead inside a locked room at the campus, close to midnight on Friday, November 10.

The bodies were reportedly found by the guards on duty, following another student’s call for help. According to a police report made available online, there was an ongoing Boy Scouts camping in the school, supervised by some teachers.

The Department of Education said in a statement it was fully committed in coordinating with the Philippine National Police for a speedy resolution of the case.

They also called on the public to respect the privacy of the families during this tragic time.

Meanwhile, the City of Taguig led by Mayor Lani Cayetano asked the public to avoid sharing unverified information on social media.

In their statement, the local government unit mentioned a program that addresses mental health issues among students through workshops and small group discussions in schools and with faith-based organizations.

They also shared that there will be mental health professionals at Signal Village National High School to help students, friends, and teachers cope with the tragedy.

Meanwhile, the Southern Police District (SPD) ruled out foul play, citing autopsy reports, according to a Manila Bulletin report.

Manalo told Smart Parenting that she is "still processing everything." She then took to Facebook to thank those who shared their warmth and compassion to their family.

"The resolution of the ongoing investigation is very important to us, not only for our peace of mind, but in upholding the principles of truth and accountability. May our respective authorities continue their efforts to uncover facts with determination and thoroughness," she wrote in a post today, November 13.

"Our loved ones, regardless of age, need a safer and a more compassionate environment," she concluded.

This free chat line service is open for teens who are struggling with mental health issues. Read here.