Shocking Truth: 382 Bullying Cases in One School—What DepEd and PBBM Are Doing to Stop It!

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Bullying in Philippine schools has long been a pervasive issue, affecting the well-being and academic performance of countless students. Recent studies have highlighted alarming statistics, prompting concerted efforts from various sectors to combat this menace.

The Gravity of the Situation

According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2019 results, 65% of Filipino students reported experiencing some form of bullying at least a few times a month, with 40% being bullied frequently (once a week or more). This prevalence was among the highest globally. The PISA 2022 report indicated that one in three Filipino students continues to face bullying in schools, translating to approximately 43% of girls and 53% of boys encountering bullying incidents multiple times a month. These figures are significantly higher than the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average of 20% for girls and 21% for boys. 

The repercussions of bullying extend beyond immediate physical and emotional harm. A study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) revealed that differences in bullying exposure account for approximately 0.05 standard deviations of the gap in average student achievement between proficient and non-proficient students. This disparity could potentially cost the Philippines around PHP 10–20 billion annually in foregone economic activity. 

Government Initiatives and Policy Reforms

In response to these pressing concerns, the Department of Education (DepEd), under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, has taken decisive steps. On March 4, 2025, Secretary Angara signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act. This act mandates the establishment of Mental Health and Well-Being Offices (MHWO) in high-burden areas, led by Schools Division Counselors. The initiative aims to prioritize learners' well-being and create an enabling learning environment. Additionally, there is a concerted effort to assign one school counselor or counselor associate in large schools, such as Rizal High School, which currently has only one guidance counselor for its 12,584 students.

Aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of schools as "no-bully zones," DepEd is collaborating with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) to revise and update the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. The goal is to make the law more responsive to current school realities and ensure more effective enforcement. The revised IRR is scheduled for completion in the next two months, aiming for implementation by the start of the 2025-2026 school year. 

Expanding Support for Learners

To address the underreporting of bullying cases, DepEd plans to integrate Anti-Bullying and Rights-Based Education into the curriculum and include the Anti-Bullying Policy and Code of Conduct in the Learner’s Handbook. Social and Behavior Change (SBC) materials will also be distributed nationwide to reinforce awareness and advocacy against bullying. The Learner Rights and Protection Division (LRPD) is enhancing intervention mechanisms to ensure faster case resolution and better support systems for affected students. There are also plans to localize the TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline (TCCH) to adapt to the language, context, and cultural nuances of each region.

Community Involvement: A Collective Effort

While policy reforms are crucial, the fight against bullying requires a collective effort from students, parents, educators, and the broader community. Principal Richard Santos of Rizal High School emphasizes that addressing bullying is not solely the school's responsibility. He advocates for active involvement from parents and the community to ensure a safe environment for every student. This sentiment underscores the importance of a united front in transforming schools into safe havens where learners can thrive without fear.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Department of Education, schools, and communities signify a robust commitment to eradicating bullying in Philippine schools. Through strengthened policies, expanded support systems, and community involvement, there is hope that the pervasive issue of bullying will be effectively addressed, fostering a safer and more nurturing environment for all learners.

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