SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has raised alarms over the growing violence among minors, particularly incidents of disruptive behavior and brutal altercations, including stabbings.

He said such cases highlight the urgent need for stronger anti-bullying, mental health, and guidance programs in schools.

Gatchalian noted that three separate cases have already been reported this month.

One incident occurred outside Rizal High School in Pasig City, where two students—one in Grade 7 and another in Grade 10—were stabbed during a school altercation.

Another incident, involving students aged 13 to 17, took place in Iloilo City, where a brawl resulted in two students being stabbed.

Additionally, two female minors were reportedly stabbed in the face inside an elementary school in Marikina.

The Senate Committee on Basic Education chairman urged the Department of Education, law enforcement agencies, and local government units to collaborate on strengthening interventions that address the root causes of these violent incidents.

Gatchalian also called on parents and communities to be vigilant and actively engage in guiding the youth.

“Dumadami na ang mga insidente ng ganitong pananaksak na mismong mga menor de edad ang sangkot. Schools should all have proper security measures, guidance programs, and support systems to prevent such conflicts from escalating,” Gatchalian pointed out.

“Violence among students reflects deeper societal issues, and we must address these concerns collectively to protect the safety and future of our children. Sending our children to school is not just about preparing them to be academically competitive; it’s also about shaping their character and values, which they should carry with them beyond the school walls,” Gatchalian stressed.

Tagged as the bullying capital of the world, based on international large-scale assessments, the Philippines should have already implemented the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which Gatchalian authored and sponsored.