The teachers who are involved in sexual harassment cases in Bacoor National High School in Cavite might be dismissed from service if they are found guilty, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday, Sept. 1, said.
DepEd Spokesperson Michael Poa, in a press conference, explained that the most severe punishment that the teachers involved in the alleged sex abuse against them is dismissal.
“In DepEd, it’s more of an administrative proceeding,” Poa said. “If it will merit the severest penalty, it will be dismissal,” he added.
On Aug. 28, supposed conversations between students and their teachers went viral. Following the “disturbing” allegations, DepEd then called the attention of the concerned Schools Division Office (SDO) and an investigation was made.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2022/08/30/deped-investigates-alleged-sexual-harrassment-in-bacoor-national-high-school/
Poa said that seven teachers identified through posts are currently under investigation.
On Sept. 2, Poa said that the fact-finding report will be submitted to the regional office. “From then on, we will determine what will be the next administrative steps, proceedings against the teachers,” he added.
Although the investigation is currently ongoing, Poa pointed out one challenge: the alleged victims have yet to file affidavits.
“Sana tulungan nyo kami na hikayatin yung mga alleged victims na lumabas at mag-file ng kanila affidavits para mapalakas lalo yung kaso kung meron man (I hope you will help us encourage the alleged victims to come forward and file their affidavits to strengthen the case, if there is any,” Poa said.
To strengthen measures in schools and protect learners against abuses, Poa said that Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte already met with the Child Protection Unit (CPU) of DepEd on Aug. 30
Poa said that there were already “major directions” given to the SPU to strengthen their presence and programs on the regional, division, and school levels.
”That’s something that we are looking to strengthen to help the learners that are experiencing abuse,” Poa added.