7 students suspended over Facebook post

MANILA – Seven graduating students of the Espiritu Santo Parochial School (ESPS) in Manila sought help from Mayor Alfredo Lim after they were suspended over alleged libelous statements they made against the school on social networking site Facebook.

The students, who have been prohibited from entering the school’s premises for three weeks now, have apologized for their actions and appealed to the school to lift the suspension.

The students claimed that the statements against their teacher, Mrs. Romalyn Rizardo, were made in jest.

A parent of one of the students, Gloria Valdez, feels that the sanctions slapped on the students may have been too harsh.

Valdez said they received a letter from school management saying the students committed a major offense—“any form of disrespect, serious threat or physical harm done to any person in authority, uttering defamatory or libelous statement"—based on the student handbook.

The students allegedly used profane language on the Facebook post and called the school “bobo” (stupid).

The posts were allegedly made in August this year.

The students said they regret their actions and they are asking for forgiveness from the school’s management.

Their parents are also calling on the school to lift the suspension.

Meanwhile, Department of Education City School Division Supt. Dr. Ponciano Menguito said the parties involved will be invited to discuss the matter.

ABS-CBN News tried to get the side of ESPS officials, but they refused to comment. -- Report from Alex Santos, ABS-CBN News

source: abs-cbnnews.com