SENATOR Erwin Tulfo has urged the Senate to review and strengthen the country’s anti-bullying law to better protect students from harassment and abuse in schools.

Tulfo called on fellow lawmakers to revisit Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, to address persistent cases of bullying among students, particularly in public schools in the provinces.

The senator said he has received numerous complaints from parents and students who claim they are being teased, mocked, and belittled because of their physical appearance or personal circumstances.

Some students, he added, have also suffered physical harm at the hands of their classmates.

“My esteemed colleagues, schools should be safe spaces for our children. Yet for some, school becomes a place of fear, shame, and oppression,” Tulfo said.

Tulfo stressed the need to strengthen the existing law to ensure that no Filipino child continues to suffer from bullying within school premises.

Among the proposals being considered are clearer and stricter accountability measures for students found guilty of bullying.

For a first offense, a student may face immediate suspension along with mandatory counseling and participation in an intervention program aimed at correcting behavior.

In cases where bullying results in physical harm or serious injury, Tulfo said schools may impose heavier sanctions, including expulsion for repeat offenders.

The senator also underscored the need to reinforce the role of teachers, guidance counselors, and school administrators in promptly identifying and addressing bullying incidents.

Tulfo added that schools should regularly remind students that bullying is strictly prohibited and carries serious consequences under the law.

The lawmaker said strengthening the measure would help ensure that schools remain safe and supportive learning environments for Filipino children