Manila: All public and private schools must now adopt clear anti-bullying policies, promptly respond to complaints, and take concrete steps to ensure student safety under the revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act, the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) said Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a Bagong Pilipinas interview, CWC executive director Undersecretary Angelo Tapales stated that the updated rules issued by the Department of Education (DepEd) set minimum standards for school policies, including the obligation to investigate reports and restore a sense of safety for all parties involved.
He noted that some schools have previously avoided addressing cases, but the new IRR explicitly prohibits such practices. Tapales emphasized that a lack of reported bullying cases does not necessarily indicate a school's positive performance, and he urged schools not to ignore reports.
Reports of non-compliance received through the government's MAKABATA Helpline 1383 will be referred to DepEd for investigation. Tapales mentioned that DepEd will actively monitor schools to ensure the implementation of anti-bullying policies.
The revised IRR also makes principals and school heads fully responsible and accountable for all incidents within their institutions, mandating them to appoint disciplinary officers to handle bullying concerns. New learner formation officers will also be designated to support interventions.
Tapales highlighted that the CWC will work with DepEd's Learner Protection and Rights Division to monitor compliance and expand the MAKABATA Helpline's reach to private schools. The strengthened anti-bullying framework is part of the implementation of Republic Act No. 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-being Promotion Act, which requires schools to convert guidance offices into care centers staffed with mental health professionals.
RA 12080 also mandates the creation of mental health offices at the division level. Tapales stated that while there are existing training programs for teachers and guidance counselors in providing psychological first aid, there is a need for more capacity building.
He concluded by stating that the government is determined to make both schools and communities safe for all children, placing accountability on school leaders, staff, and the wider education system.