The Department of Education (DepEd) said it will impose tougher sanctions on students who commit serious acts of bullying, violence, threats and other high-risk offenses, including non-readmission and exclusion from school.

The measures are contained in DepEd Order 006, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment, which consolidates the department’s learner-protection protocols.

“We want to give our students opportunities to change, but we will never compromise the safety of the majority. Schools should be safe and peaceful places for everyone,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

Under the guidelines, serious offenses such as repeated bullying and online harassment may result in suspension of up to five days and referral to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. A second offense may lead to non-readmission, while a third may result in exclusion.

More serious offenses, including acts causing serious physical harm, bomb threats and dangerous hoaxes, carry heavier penalties.