SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday urged both public and private schools to immediately adopt and enforce robust anti-bullying measures amid a rise in reported bullying and violence-related incidents in educational institutions.

“Given the rise in reported bullying and other violence-related incidents in many learning institutions, public and private schools should lose no time in adopting and implementing their respective anti-bullying policies,” Gatchalian said.

He called on education stakeholders to remain vigilant and ensure these policies are effectively enforced in every school.

“Principals and school heads are now fully responsible and accountable for all incidents within their institutions. It’s time to act,” he stressed.

“Let’s restore the confidence that our schools are safe spaces where learners can study and grow without fear,” the senator added.

Gatchalian’s remarks come as authorities and educators face mounting concerns over campus safety, prompting renewed calls for stronger implementation of the Anti-Bullying Act and other child protection measures.