DepEd reviews 'Anti-Bullying Law' amid rising bullying cases in schools

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday announced that it is reviewing the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the anti-bullying law due to the increasing prevalence of bullying in schools.

"We are reviewing the IRR of the anti-bullying law and ensuring greater compliance with the law, especially with the adoption of stronger policies required by the law," said Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

Angara also mentioned that the agency has strengthened the Learner Protection Office to enhance its capacity and ensure that more staff are available to assist victims.

"We are also prioritizing filling guidance counselor or similar positions to ensure there are people to help," the DepEd chief added.

The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) disclosed over the weekend that 65 percent of Grade 5 learners in the country experienced bullying “a few times” a month, based on the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). While there was a slight decline in the 2022 PISA, one in three students still faced bullying every week.

According to data from DepEd's Learner Rights and Protection Office, only 38 out of 339 reported bullying cases were resolved between November 2022 and July 2024.

Metro Manila (National Capital Region) had the highest number of reported bullying cases, followed by Calabarzon (Region IV-A) and Central Luzon (Region III). The regions with the least number of reported cases were Mimaropa, the Bangsamoro Region, and Soccsksargen, each with only one reported case.

EDCOM II has recommended amending the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, which it described as "outdated and not responsive to school-level realities."