ILIGAN CITY — A 9-year-old Grade 3 pupil from Maria Cristina Falls Elementary School is fighting for his life after being brutally assaulted by a group of high school students in Barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City.
The victim, identified as Jonard “Jon” Ensipido, the son of a farmer, was on his way home for lunch when he was allegedly waylaid and beaten by at least four to five senior high school students. According to reports, the attack was recorded on video by the assailants, adding to the outrage after the footage circulated on social media.
Ensipido, who often helps his family gather coconuts during school breaks, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City. He remained unconscious in the Intensive Care Unit for three days before finally regaining consciousness, though he remains in critical condition.
The brutal assault has sparked public condemnation and renewed calls for stronger anti-bullying measures. Iligan City Mayor Frederick Siao denounced the attack, describing it as “deeply saddening and disturbing.”
“No child deserves to go through such pain and violence,” Mayor Siao said in a statement. “As a father and as your mayor, this incident is deeply painful. We will not allow such acts to go unpunished. I have already extended immediate financial assistance to the family and directed our authorities to take the necessary legal actions.”
Mayor Siao also sent a message of hope to the young victim: “Be strong, little warrior. The entire city is praying for your fast recovery. We are with you.”
The Iligan City Police Office (ICPO) has clarified that an unrelated bullying video circulating online is not connected to the Maria Cristina incident. Authorities warned the public against spreading unverified content that could mislead and hamper the investigation.
Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 10 and the schools allegedly linked to the suspects have yet to issue official statements. The victim’s family is appealing for justice and calling for accountability from all involved.
Police said a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the attack and to ensure the perpetrators face appropriate charges.