Students and parents can now report bullying incidents directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for early intervention and legal assistance.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla said complaints may be filed directly with the DOJ Action Center or any of the eight Regional Katarungan Offices nationwide.

The DOJ is stepping in to address cases in which victims feel their immediate community—such as teachers or local officials—is ignoring their concerns.

Depending on the gravity of the reported incident, DOJ prosecutors may recommend the filing of criminal charges, facilitate mediation, or refer the matter to the appropriate agencies.

Students and parents may also continue to use the Department of Education's (DepEd) Learner Telesafe helpline and report incidents to the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the 911 emergency hotline.

Remulla urged students experiencing bullying to report their cases directly to the DOJ, saying prosecutors are ready to act on complaints.

The DOJ chief said the agency is expanding access to its services so that even school-related concerns can be addressed when local responses fall short.

"I complained of being bullied. What is the action of the teacher and the principal? What is the action of the barangay chairman?" Remulla said.

He said the DOJ wants to make its services readily available to victims of bullying.

Victims may approach government prosecutors, who will evaluate each case and determine the appropriate course of action, whether it involves filing charges, mediation, or referral to another office.

"But if there is bullying, go to our fiscal and we will find a way to resolve or respond to the complaint on bullying," Remulla said.

He linked the issue to the recent school shooting in Tacloban, noting that unresolved grievances, including bullying, can escalate if left unaddressed. He said the DOJ hopes to intervene early to prevent such situations from worsening.

Complaints may be brought to the DOJ Action Center or any of the eight Regional Katarungan Offices nationwide, which provide free legal assistance, dispute resolution, and coordination with prosecutors.

Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez said the offices are intended to ensure that individuals who feel ignored by school or community officials still have a place where they can seek help and be heard.