DepEd Strengthens Anti-Bullying Rules for Safer Schools
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has reinforced its commitment to safer learning spaces by revising the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. These updated rules aim to create more inclusive and secure environments for Filipino students across all schools.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara, who authored the original law as a senator, signed the revised IRR to ensure that bullying is firmly addressed in every corner of the education system. “Ang eskuwela ay lugar ng pagkatuto, hindi ng pang-aapi. Wala dapat puwang ang bullying sa kahit anong sulok ng ating mga paaralan at lipunan,” Angara emphasized, underlining the importance of eliminating bullying from schools and society.
Standard Anti-Bullying Policy Across All Schools
With the new regulations, every public and private school—including community learning centers and overseas DepEd-managed institutions—must adopt a Standard Anti-Bullying Policy. These policies are designed to include prevention programs spanning the entire school, early interventions, and a transparent process for filing complaints and appeals.
Moreover, the revised IRR clearly defines the roles of teachers, school administrators, parents or guardians, and students in tackling bullying. This ensures that every reported case is properly addressed without falling through the cracks.
Expanded Definition of Bullying
The updated rules broaden the definition of bullying to cover not only physical harassment but also repeated intimidation, cyberbullying, and discrimination based on gender or religion. It also includes acts causing emotional harm or social exclusion, even without physical injury.
“Kailangan may kultura ng malasakit at respeto. At para mangyari ito, binibigyan natin ng malinaw na kapangyarihan at tungkulin ang mga guro, magulang, at school head,” Angara added, stressing the need for a culture of care and respect fostered by empowered school communities.
New Roles and Protocols for Effective Response
To boost school-level responses, the IRR introduces the position of Learner Formation Officer. This officer will be the first contact for bullying complaints, tasked with immediate investigation and providing support to victims.
Schools are also required to incorporate anti-bullying procedures into their student handbooks and prominently display these guidelines in at least three places around campus to raise awareness.
Support for Child Protection Committees
In addition, DepEd pledges continued assistance to strengthen Child Protection Committees (CPCs) within schools. Technical support will be provided to ensure these bodies effectively protect students and promptly respond to bullying situations.
These strengthened measures reflect a nationwide effort to foster safer, kinder, and more respectful school environments where Filipino students can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination.
For more news and updates on education reforms, visit Filipinokami.com.
