The Department of Education (DepEd) renewed on Thursday its commitment to provide a “safe and nurturing” environment for teachers and learners after a teacher and her husband were reported to be casualties of an ambush in Banisilan, Cotabato Province.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte also called on authorities to arrest those behind the attack.

“DepEd reaffirms its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for teachers and learners alike, where learning can thrive free from violence, fear and intimidation,” Duterte said.

“I call on our law enforcement authorities to apprehend and swiftly bring those responsible for this heinous act to justice,” she added.

According to police authorities, Angelie Cañete Romanguera and her husband Juanito were on their way to Pantar Elementary School when they were gunned down by armed men in Barangay Wadya.

Duterte condemned the incident and sent her condolences to the family of the victims.

“This act of violence is an attack not only on individuals but on the values of education, respect, and community. I extend my sincerest condolences to their family and loved ones, and join them in this time of grief,” she said. (PNA)