Bam wants zero tolerance on bullying in schools

Senator Bam Aquino is pushing for a stronger school safety system that would require schools to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against bullying and put in place measures to prevent, report and address such incidents.

Under Senate Bill No. 2390, or the proposed Comprehensive School Safety Act, schools would be required to provide accessible reporting channels and promptly assess and respond to bullying and other threats to the safety of students and school personnel.

“Schools face a range of threats to the safety and well-being of learners and school personnel, including bullying, violence, abuse, harassment, emergencies, digital risks, unsafe conditions, and other emerging risks,” said Aquino, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

“We need systems that prevent harm, prepare schools to respond when risks arise, and provide the support necessary for recovery when incidents occur. The need for a stronger and more comprehensive approach has become increasingly clear,” he added.

The bill calls for the Department of Education, together with concerned agencies and stakeholders, to establish a National Comprehensive School Safety Framework covering security, anti-bullying, digital safety, mental health, emergency preparedness and incident reporting.

Each school would also be required to prepare and update a School Safety Plan every year covering emergency protocols, hotlines, safety infrastructure, digital safety, off-campus activities, community engagement and monitoring.

Schools would be required to maintain a safe, inclusive and respectful environment while adopting a zero-tolerance policy against violence, abuse, bullying, discrimination, harassment and other harmful acts.

Depending on their risk profile, schools may be equipped with CCTV cameras, screening equipment, metal detectors, visitor management systems, security personnel, perimeter security and emergency alert systems.

The measure also requires regular safety assessments, security monitoring, emergency drills, safety orientations and an annual School Safety Audit.

It also strengthens safety measures for off-campus activities and digital threats, including cyberbullying, while providing for psychosocial support, peer programs and early intervention.

“We owe this to our teachers, who deserve a safe place to teach. And we owe it to every parent and guardian, to assure them that their government is doing everything to protect their children and keep them safe,” Aquino said.IMT