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1 in every 3 Filipino students encounters bullying within the school premises, as confirmed by the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) study. The Department of Education (DepEd) is actively engaged in addressing this concerning issue through various initiatives and programs.
DepEd, in response to the findings of the Pisa study, is intensifying efforts to combat bullying in schools. Despite a decrease in bullying incidents between 2018 and 2022, it remains a persistent problem, particularly among male students and those enrolled in public schools. This behavior not only affects the well-being of students but also impacts their academic performance, with those experiencing bullying scoring significantly lower in mathematics.
The study revealed distressing statistics: 28 percent of the surveyed Filipino students reported being ridiculed by their peers, while 19 percent admitted to being threatened by fellow students. Various forms of bullying were reported, ranging from spreading malicious rumors to physical altercations and exclusion from social activities.
To tackle this issue head-on, DepEd has implemented antibullying programs through its Learner Rights Protection Office (LRPO) and the Bureau of Learners Support Services (BLSS). These programs include the establishment of the “telesafe” hotline, child protection desks, and mental health initiatives aimed at creating a safe and supportive environment within schools. Additionally, DepEd is in the process of establishing a mental health unit and hiring mental health coordinators for each region.
Furthermore, DepEd is collaborating with organizations such as the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation to provide training to teachers and staff, enabling them to identify signs of bullying among students. Legislative efforts, such as Senate Bill No. 2200 proposed by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, seek to strengthen interventions for student welfare and mental health support. This bill advocates for the enhancement of guidance counselor roles and the creation of new positions dedicated to mental health specialists.
While awaiting legislative measures, the effective enforcement of existing laws like Republic Act No. 10627, the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, is crucial in safeguarding students from bullying. Moreover, Pwersa ng Bayanihang Atleta party-list Rep. Margarita Nograles introduced House Bill No. 2886, which aims to penalize individuals proven to engage in bullying behaviors, whether in school, workplace, or online platforms.
Recognizing the prevalence of cyberbullying, particularly among adolescents, efforts are being made to address this form of violence. Recent data from Unicef indicates that nearly half of Filipino children aged 13 to 17 have experienced cyberviolence, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect children from online harassment and abuse.
In conclusion, DepEd’s commitment to combating bullying in schools is evident through its multifaceted approach, encompassing prevention, intervention, and legislative advocacy. By fostering a culture of respect and empathy, schools can become safer environments where students can thrive academically and emotionally.
