Bullying Case Prompts Student Transfers in Nueva Vizcaya
BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Following a bullying case that shocked the community, Bambang National High School officials in Barangay Buag have recommended the transfer of five Grade 8 students to other schools. This decision comes after a serious incident involving their classmate on July 8, prompting urgent action to address the situation.
The recommendation for the transfer was made after a mediation session held last Friday. The meeting brought together the victim and the accused students, their parents, local officials from Buag and Bambang, police representatives, and school division authorities. Sources said the discussion aimed to find a resolution that protects the welfare of all involved.
Dr. Orlando Manuel, the schools division superintendent of Nueva Vizcaya, confirmed that the parents of the accused acknowledged their children’s misconduct and agreed to comply with the school’s directive. “We will carefully assess the recommendation with the school governance operations chief and legal unit. The division’s child protection committee will ensure that the transfer is appropriate,” he added.
Details of the Bullying Incident and Investigation
Investigators revealed that both the victim and the aggressors, all female students, had skipped their classes and gathered for a drinking session near the school. The conflict reportedly began when the group confronted the victim, accusing her of spreading rumors and speaking negatively against one of their friends.
This confrontation escalated into a physical attack. The victim was pulled away, slapped repeatedly, spanked, shoved to the ground, and kicked. One of the aggressors even recorded the assault and uploaded the video online, which quickly went viral and drew public attention.
“We will also consider filing a case of cyberbullying due to the online sharing of the video,” Dr. Manuel said. The school division is taking both the physical and digital aspects of the bullying seriously.
Support and Preventive Measures for Students
To help those affected, trauma counseling and debriefing sessions have been scheduled for the victim, the accused students, and witnesses. Officials emphasized the importance of emotional support in healing from such incidents.
School authorities also urged parents to closely monitor their children’s activities and well-being. They reminded students to focus on their studies and avoid harmful behavior. Additionally, the school plans to summon the owner of the store that sold liquor to minors in connection with the incident.
Local Government Actions to Prevent Future Incidents
The Bayombong town government has instructed law enforcement officers to strictly enforce the ban on selling alcohol to minors. Mayor Benjamin Cuaresma III said this move is vital to “prevent similar occurrences” in the future. As part of the preventive strategy, students are now prohibited from loitering outside the school during class hours, especially near streets, the public plaza, and amusement areas.
These combined efforts from the school and local government aim to create a safer environment for all students in Nueva Vizcaya.
For more news and updates on bullying cases, visit Filipinokami.com.
