SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian has filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into the effects of online gaming platforms and social media use on children, including their possible role in the rise of violence in schools.

Through Proposed Senate Resolution No. 488, Gatchalian aims to identify policy recommendations and craft responsive legislation that will better protect Filipino children from the harmful effects of unregulated digital exposure.

The resolution was filed following a series of violent incidents in schools, including the shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City that claimed the lives of three learners.

According to police reports, the suspects had been heavily exposed to GoreBox, a graphic violence-simulation online game that was later temporarily blocked by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.

Another recent incident occurred at Cabaluay National High School in Zamboanga City, where a stabbing left at least two learners injured.

During a Senate Committee on Basic Education hearing last year, the Department of Education reported that at least 103 bullying incidents escalated into campus violence between Nov. 24, 2022, and April 7, 2025.

“Hindi natin maaaring balewalain ang epekto ng walang kontrol na digital exposure sa mga kabataan. Panahon nang tiyakin kung sapat ang ating mga polisiya upang maprotektahan sila,” Gatchalian said.