Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday approved tougher and clearer measures to combat school bullying, following the signing of the revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

According to Philippines News Agency, Education Secretary Sonny Angara stated that the updated IRR mandates all public and private schools, community learning centers, Philippine schools overseas, and international schools to adopt standardized anti-bullying policies. He emphasized that the revisions aim to ensure a safer learning environment for students, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive.

Angara highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of compassion and respect by granting clearer powers and roles to teachers, parents, and school heads. This involves responsibilities for the DepEd governance level, learners, parents, and parent substitutes, covering tasks such as the rollout of school-wide prevention programs, early interventions, and a streamlined system for addressing complaints and appeals related to bullying.

He further stressed the urgency of addressing bullying as it contributes to absenteeism, poor performance, and school dropouts. Angara pointed out that no student can thrive if they are afraid to go to school, asserting that this policy is not only about discipline but also about enhancing the quality of education.

The revised IRR also expands the definitions of acts and precursors of bullying, including precursor behaviors, repeated patterns of intimidation, and cases that may lead to significant emotional distress or social exclusion, even if they do not result in physical harm. Additionally, a new role of Learner Formation Officer has been introduced to act as the first responder to bullying cases, ensuring timely action.