SENATOR Robin Padilla is pushing for the passage of Senate Bill No. 611, or the proposed Protection of Students’ Religious Belief Act, to protect students from discrimination, coercion, or punishment due to their religious beliefs.

Padilla said schools must remain safe and inclusive learning environments where students of all faiths are treated with respect and are free to practice their religion without fear of prejudice.

“Schools should be safe spaces for all students—Christians, Muslims, Indigenous Peoples, or those belonging to any faith. No child should be embarrassed, forced, or punished because of his or her religion,” Padilla said.

Under the proposed measure, all educational institutions would be mandated to uphold students’ right to freely exercise their religious beliefs without discrimination. The bill also allows students to wear religious attire on campus and during school-related activities.

The measure prohibits schools from requiring students to attend or participate in religious activities, classes, lessons, or courses that conflict with their faith unless written consent is secured. For minors, such consent must come from a parent or legal guardian.

Padilla said the proposal is anchored on the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom and every individual’s right to live according to their conscience and beliefs.

“This is not against any religion. It is a stand for every student’s freedom to practice and uphold his or her faith with dignity,” he said.

The bill also directs the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines to conduct awareness campaigns and educational programs that promote respect for religious freedom in schools.

Padilla emphasized that genuine unity begins with recognizing diversity and respecting freedom of belief.

“If we want true unity, it must start with respect. Children should never be taught to be ashamed of their faith,” he said.