Cebu City, January 27, 2020 ── The Department of Education Regional Office VII recognizes the importance of gathering factual and accurate information for dissemination on matters specially concerning the safety and security of all of our school communities. Hence, this Office condemns the recent circulated news about bomb threat/scare in some schools in Cebu Province posted and shared through Facebook.

          It was reported by one of this Office’s Schools Divisions that a particular Facebook Page/Account using the name of DepEd is spreading the said bomb threat/scare news. The account is currently tracked down by the authorities and is believed to be an unofficial account created by a particular party (not from DepEd). It was also reported that since its circulation, viewers/audiences have shared it in the said social media, causing serious panic from both public and private schools and the rest of the vast concerned majority.

          As of press time, this Office and its Schools Division Office are strictly coordinating with the relevant authorities to assist them in the management, assessment and formulation of appropriate measures and/or interventions for such crisis.

          Meanwhile, all Schools Division Offices and schools in DepEd RO VII are advised to reinforce tight security measures in their respective school communities, monitor and check all classrooms/ buildings, avoid disseminating unverified information on the said news and prioritize the safety and well-being of all teachers and learners.

          If relative concerns about this matter arises, kindly contact (032) 414-7399 or (032) 231-1433 as soon as possible.