The Department of Education (DepEd) is collaborating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to activate the 911 emergency response system in schools as part of efforts to address bullying and school-related violence.
In an interview on DZRH’s Damdaming Bayan, DepEd Undersecretary Malcolm Garma said the agency recently met with PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre to coordinate immediate response measures for incidents occurring in and around schools.
“Just last week, we had a meeting with PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre at inilalatag na rin namin yung 911 sa ating mga eskwelahan. Nang sa ganon, kung talagang ito ay school violence na mangyayari sa loob o malapit sa eskwelahan, they can easily call 911 at magre-responde ang ating kapulisan. Nang sa ganon ay mahagapan o kaya ay ma-resolve na agad yung mga school violence that will happen in and outside the schools,” Garma said.
According to Garma, the move will ensure that problems of bullying and potential violence within or near school premises are addressed swiftly.
Security Measures in Schools
Aside from the hotline, DepEd is considering the installation of CCTV cameras across schools to strengthen monitoring and security. The department noted that many cases of school-related violence occur just outside campuses, making preventive measures necessary.
PNP visibility will also be heightened in school areas, with Garma stressing that these “unfortunate incidents” must be prevented before they escalate.
Strengthening Values Education
DepEd is banking on values formation as a long-term solution to address bullying. Under Republic Act 11476, or the GMRC and Values Education Act, Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) is now a required subject for Grades 1 to 6, while Values Education is integrated into the curriculum for Grades 7 to 12.
Anti-Bullying Campaign
Garma emphasized that the department’s anti-bullying campaign remains a top priority, with policies being improved to meet the evolving needs of students.
“Pinapalakas natin yung kampanya ng anti-bullying. We are making it more visible, make it more audible,” he said.
DepEd will soon implement the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. Under the new IRR, the DepEd Central Office will directly oversee all anti-bullying initiatives and maintain a centralized record of reported cases to help enhance existing policies.
In line with this, schools will also appoint Learner Formation Officers tasked with implementing programs that promote student well-being and discipline.
