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DepEd strengthens anti-bullying policy, enforces stricter rules in schools
DepEd strengthens anti-bullying policy, enforces stricter rules in schools
In a move to reinforce safe and inclusive learning environments, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday, August 4, announced the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013—marking a significant step toward curbing bullying in Philippine schools.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, who signed the updated IRR, said the revised policy provides clearer guidelines, stronger accountability, and enhanced support systems to address bullying more effectively.
This update, DepEd said, aligns with President Marcos’ vision of ensuring safe and supportive schools for Filipino learners.
“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 (The school is a place for learning, not for oppression. There should be no room for bullying in any corner of our schools and society),” Angara said.
Key highlights of the revised Anti-Bullying IRR
Among the highlights of the revised IRR are:
Mandatory Anti-Bullying Policies: All public and private basic education institutions—including community learning centers and overseas schools under DepEd—are now required to adopt standardized anti-bullying protocols.
Clear Roles and Responsibilities: The revised guidelines clarify the duties of school heads, teachers, parents, and learners in preventing and addressing bullying cases.
Learner Formation Officers: Each school must designate a Learner Formation Officer to serve as the primary responder to bullying reports, ensuring immediate action and referral when necessary.
School-wide Prevention Programs: Institutions are urged to implement early intervention strategies and promote a culture of respect and empathy across all grade levels.
Expanded Definition of Bullying: The IRR now recognizes precursor behaviors and non-physical bullying—such as social exclusion and emotional distress—that often go unnoticed but significantly affect learners’ well-being.
Increased Visibility and Awareness: Anti-bullying policies must be prominently posted within school premises and included in student handbooks to ensure accessibility and awareness.
Angara, principal author of RA 10627 during his time in the Senate, said these improvements aim not just to enforce discipline, but also to uplift educational outcomes.
“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 heads (There must be a culture of compassion and respect. And for this to happen, we are giving clear authority and responsibility to teachers, parents, and school heads),” Angara said.
DepEd will also monitor the Child Protection Committees (CPCs) in all schools and provide technical assistance to ensure their effectiveness.
The new IRR underscores the agency’s proactive stance in tackling the root causes of bullying while providing a strong support framework for both victims and school staff.