DepEd and EDCOM II Collaborate to Strengthen Anti-Bullying Measures in Schools

PASIG CITY, 7 February 2025 – In a concerted effort to tackle the persistent issue of bullying in schools, the Department of Education (DepEd) is partnering with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) to revise the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the need for meticulous monitoring of bullying incidents, noting that despite the law's enactment over a decade ago, not all schools have implemented anti-bullying policies. "Kailangan na mas mabusisi at masinop tayo sa pagbantay ng mga bullying incidents," Angara stated.

Studies by De La Salle University and the Philippine Institute of Development Studies highlight that bullying significantly impacts learners' academic performance due to disengagement and long-term disinterest in their studies. President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has also underscored the importance of schools being "no-bully zones" to provide safe learning environments.

Undersecretary Filemon Ray Javier reiterated the commitment of both President Marcos and Secretary Angara to ensure schools are conducive to learning, noting the long-term effects of bullying on students' well-being and academic performance.

To support victims of bullying, DepEd established the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) in 2022. Additionally, the enactment of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (RA. 12080) has been welcomed, with a focus on hiring guidance counselors and providing mental health support to students and teachers.

DepEd and EDCOM II have agreed on key revisions to the IRR, aiming to strengthen intervention programs and ensure the availability of guidance counselors and discipline officers in schools. The revised IRR is expected to be implemented before the start of the next school year, following a series of high-level consultations to incorporate findings from the Year 2 Report.