Rezel Mae Yting passed away after she collapsed during the Buwan ng Wika dance show in Tuburan

A Grade 12 student died after collapsing during a school dance presentation in Tuburan.

On Monday afternoon, August 18, 2025, a Grade 12 student from Tuburan National High School (TNHS) tragically died after falling during a dance performance at the school's Buwan ng Wika celebration.

The victim was identified as Rezel Mae Yting, 17, a resident of Barangay Poblacion 8. The event took place at approximately 2:30 p.m. on the TNHS campus in Barangay Poblacion 7.

In an interview with XFM-Cebu, Rezel’s stepfather, Jerahmeel Plaza, said the teenager had joined a fun run two days prior, on Saturday, August 17, which may have affected her health. He explained that the event was not officially organized by the school but was allegedly encouraged by their P.E. teacher, who reportedly told students they would earn additional points for participating.

Following the activity, Rezel reportedly complained of body aches but still chose to attend school to take part in the scheduled dance presentation.
Plaza expressed disappointment over what he described as the lack of clear communication from the school regarding his stepdaughter’s sudden death.

Rezel’s remains are currently at St. Peter Funeral Chapel in Barangay Apalan, Tuburan. Her family is considering an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

The tragedy has raised questions about student safety, school accountability, and the pressures placed on learners to participate in activities beyond academics. Should schools and teachers set stricter guidelines to safeguard students’ health and well-being?