ILIGAN CITY — Police have arrested three high school students accused of brutally assaulting a 9-year-old Grade 3 pupil in Barangay Maria Cristina, leaving the victim comatose.
Authorities said the boy, identified as Jonard Ensipido, was rushed to a hospital after the suspects allegedly ganged up on him, punching and beating him severely. He remains in a coma due to critical injuries.
Photos released by police showed the three minors in handcuffs as they were escorted to the station for questioning.
Police Maj. Joanne Navarro, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office 10, said the suspects’ parents could also face charges.
“Parents have a legal responsibility for the criminal acts of their children, especially when they are minors,” Navarro said.
Investigators are looking into the possibility of other individuals being involved in the attack, vowing to pursue justice for Jonard and his family.