Nation

SENATOR RENEWS CALL FOR STRONGER ACTION AGAINST BULLYING, BACKS DEPED INTERVENTIONS

/ 21 April 2025

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has reiterated his call for government agencies to fully deliver on their promises to address bullying in schools, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger and sustained interventions to safeguard students’ welfare.

“I expect our government agencies to deliver on their commitment to address school bullying,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

He expressed full support for various initiatives led by the Department of Education (DepEd), including the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in schools, the creation of Parent Effectiveness Service Offices, and the integration of Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and Values Education into the curriculum — measures he personally advocated.

The senator also underscored the need for a comprehensive approach through the implementation of the School-Based Mental Health Program and the establishment of Care Centers in schools, as mandated under the Basic Education Mental Health Act.

“We will not allow another student to die or be placed in danger because of our failure to eradicate bullying in our schools,” Gatchalian added, highlighting the tragic consequences of neglecting the issue.

His statement comes amid growing national concern over incidents of bullying and violence in educational institutions.

He reiterated that safeguarding students’ mental and emotional well-being must remain a top priority for both policymakers and school administrators.