Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged the Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday, February 27 to address the alarming increases in stabbing incidents involving minors.

The Senate Committee on Basic Education chairman said the DepEd, together with law enforcement agencies, and local government units (LGUs), should collaborate on strengthening interventions that address the root causes of these violent incidents.

Gatchalian also called on parents and communities to be vigilant and actively engage in guiding the youth against disruptive behavior and brutal altercations, including stabbings.

“Dumadami na ang mga insidente ng ganitong pananaksak na mismong mga menor de edad ang sangkot (The number of stabbing incident involving minors are increasing),” the senator noted.

“Schools should all have proper security measures, guidance programs, and support systems to prevent such conflicts from escalating,” he suggested.

The senator, likewise, stressed the urgent need for stronger anti-bullying, mental health, and guidance and counseling programs in schools.

He noted that for this month alone, three separate cases have already been reported. One incident occurred outside Rizal High School in Pasig City where two students, one in Grade 7 and another in Grade 10, were stabbed during a school altercation.

Another incident involving learners aged 13 to 17 took place in Iloilo City, where a brawl resulted in two students being stabbed.

Gatchalian also said another piece of information has reached his office that two female minors were stabbed in the face while inside the premises of an elementary school in Marikina.

“Violence among students reflects deeper societal issues, and we must address these concerns collectively to protect the safety and future of our children,” he said.

“Sending our children to school is not just about preparing them to be academically competitive; it's also about shaping their character and values, which they should carry with them and apply beyond the school walls,” he stressed.