A senior high school student was found dead inside the University of the East (UE) Caloocan campus on Monday after jumping off the school's rooftop.
In a report to Northern Police District director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Penones, city police chief Col. Ruben Lacuesta said the student's body was found at 6:25 AM at the back of the university's LCT Building.
The body of the 19-year-old student was rushed to Manila Central University Hospital but was later pronounced dead.
"While the student was in the hospital, UE quickly undertook investigations internally and in cooperation with the Philippine National Police’s Caloocan officers until early this afternoon, with the investigation results clearly showing the absence of any foul play or disregard by any other individual," UE President and Chief Academic Officer Zosimo Battad said in a statement.
While the entire UE community is now in mourning, Battad requested the public to respect his family’s privacy and not share “unfounded information about the student and his untimely demise.”
The UE administration then assured the deceased’s family that they would have their full support and reminded all students, regardless of campus or year level, that they could approach the university for assistance at any time.
“Please always feel free to reach out and chat with someone, verbally or non-verbally, especially in times of difficulty and distress,” Battad said.
Police said a witness, an employee of the school, recovered a hand-written suicide note from the victim. Another alleged suicide letter was found on his desk.
