SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian has called for urgent action to address violent behavior among students following separate incidents involving learners caught carrying firearms and the reported assault of a teacher by students.

Gatchalian said he was “deeply alarmed” by reports of two learners found in possession of firearms—one at a school in Biliran, Leyte, and another in Isabela City, Basilan.

He also cited the recent incident in Davao de Oro, where a teacher was allegedly assaulted by students.

“These incidents demand urgent action,” Gatchalian said in a statement issued on Friday.

The Senate leader stressed the need to fully implement the School-Based Mental Health Program and the Parent Effectiveness Service Program to help address the underlying causes of youth violence.

He also underscored the importance of strengthening the teaching of Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and Values Education to instill discipline, respect, and responsible behavior among learners.

While emphasizing the need for tighter security in schools, Gatchalian said authorities must go beyond enforcement measures and address the factors that drive violent behavior among young people.

“Stronger school security is essential, but we must also confront the factors driving violent behavior among our youth,” he said.