Las Piñas City Council introduces comprehensive school safety, child protection measure.

The Las Piñas City Council has introduced a comprehensive measure to strengthen student safety, mental health support, anti-bullying initiatives, and violence prevention programs in all educational institutions across the city.

The proposed Las Piñas City Safe Schools and Child Protection Ordinance of 2026 was introduced by Committee Chairperson Councilor Alelee Aguilar and received unanimous support from members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod during its presentation at the Las Piñas City Council Hall.

The measure comes amid growing national concerns over incidents of school bullying, youth violence, and school-related attacks, prompting calls for stronger preventive measures and child protection systems.

Under the proposed ordinance, schools will be guided by an integrated safety framework that includes enhanced child protection mechanisms, school-based mental health and psychosocial support services, behavioral threat assessment teams, anonymous reporting channels, violence prevention programs, and restorative justice interventions for children at risk.

The ordinance also seeks to establish the Las Piñas City School Safety and Student Wellness Council, which will oversee the coordination of policies and programs among schools, barangays, parents, law enforcement agencies, health professionals, and other community stakeholders.

Aguilar said the proposed measure adopts a preventive, child-centered, and whole-of-community approach by prioritizing early intervention, family involvement, rehabilitation, and accountability.

“If we truly want safer schools, we must invest not only in security but also in our children’s mental health, positive values, and strong partnerships among families, schools, government, and the community. Every child deserves to learn in an environment free from fear, violence, and bullying,” Aguilar said.

Once enacted, the ordinance is expected to serve as one of the country’s most comprehensive local policies addressing school safety, child protection, and student wellness.