Manila: The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) has expressed serious concern over a report of an incident in Tondo, Manila, in which a male Grade 7 student was allegedly forced by a teacher to eat a cockroach, accompanied by threats and intimidation.
According to Philippines News Agency, the CWC strongly condemned any form of violence and abuse against children, stressing that the incident – if proven true – constitutes a clear violation of a child’s right to safety and protection, especially within the school environment. The council highlighted the potential for severe trauma resulting from such incidents.
“Dapat tandaan ng lahat na ang paaralan ay dapat manatiling ligtas na espasyo para sa lahat ng bata-isang lugar ng pagkatuto, paghubog ng pagkatao, at pagpapahayag ng saloobin, hindi ng takot, pananakit, o pang-aabuso (Everyone must remember that schools should remain safe spaces for all children – place for learning, character formation, and self-expression, not venues of fear, harm, or abuse),” the CWC stated.
The CWC urged schools, parents, guardians, and the wider community to be vigilant and actively participate in safeguarding children’s welfare. They emphasized the importance of open communication, regular consultation, and listening to children’s voices to ensure their safety and well-being.
The council also encouraged the public to report any incidents of child abuse or violence through the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, which operates 24/7 for reports, consultations, and advice. Reports can also be made via mobile hotlines, the Makabata Helpline’s social media channels, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) e-Gov Super App under the ‘Child Abuse’ category.
The CWC reiterated the necessity of collective action to ensure children’s rights are upheld and that schools remain secure environments for learners.
On Wednesday, the Manila Police District served a warrant of arrest against the 52-year-old teacher involved in the incident. The police reported that the male Grade 7 student was allegedly threatened to be killed and forced to eat a cockroach after witnessing the teacher molest a female student in the school’s comfort room. Although the female student did not file a case, the male student filed a case last November. The arrest warrant for the teacher was released on Dec. 11, according to the police.
