Jamayka Rhose Pascual

The Philippines continue to hold the title “bullying capital of the world,” based on the recent reports from the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II).


Citing the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), EDCOMM II stated that 65% of Grade 10 students have experienced bullying at least a few times a month.

Although the 2022 PISA showed a slight decrease, it remains deeply concerning that one out of three students still suffer from bullying on a weekly basis.

Rizal High School, one of the country’s largest public schools, has recorded 382 bullying cases in just a year, in which 48 resulted in physical injuries.

While physical aggression is the most reported form of bullying, students also endure verbal abuse, exclusion from peers, and increasingly, online harassment.

In response, the Department of Education (DepEd) rolled out plans on intensifying its commitment to ensuring schools become safe and supportive environments for every student.

“The Department of Education affirms that bullying has no place in schools. Every case is taken seriously, with swift action and sustained efforts to ensure safe and supportive learning spaces for all," the department said in a statement released on April 12.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, principal author of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 leads this reform and stronger enforcements against bullying.

One of the major  steps being taken is the revision of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of both the Anti-Bullying Act and the Safe Spaces Act to reflect the modern challenges students face today.

These revisions aim to address new forms of abuse, including cyberbullying and peer violence, which have become more prevalent with the rise of digital platforms.

“Sa pagpapatupad ng batas na ito, titiyakin natin na hindi lang ito magiging isang polisiya kundi isang konkretong hakbang upang matiyak na may malalapitan ang bawat estudyante at guro sa oras ng pangangailangan,” Angara stated.

DepEd is also integrating anti-bullying education into the updated K to 10 curriculum starting in the school year 2025 - 2026, focusing on character through Good Moral and Right Conduct, Values Education, and Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao.

Beyond academics, the department is also implementing targeted interventions for students who exhibit bullying behavior, emphasizing counseling that promotes empathy, accountability, and personal growth.

Recognizing the effect of bullying on its victims, DepEd plans to further expand health services in line with the Basic Educational Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act.

This includes establishing Mental Health and Well-Being Offices in high-burden areas, which will offer much-needed support to both teachers and students.