Photo: https://bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/09/27/781943/school-violence-prompts-calls-for-teachers-well-being-support/
THE Department of Education (DepEd) must implement stronger security measures alongside anti-bullying policies and comprehensive mental health services across all basic education institutions, a senator said on Thursday following school violence incidents in San Pablo City and Davao City.
“Barely days after the school stabbing incident in Cagayan De Oro, we are again confronted with similar tragedies,” Senate President Sherwin T. Gatchalian said in a statement.
DepEd on Monday confirmed that a “violent incident” occurred at San Pablo City Science Integrated High School, when a Grade 7 student stabbed a classmate after an argument. A 13-year-old student from SIR Elementary School in Davao City also reportedly stabbed a fellow student on Wednesday.
Following these incidents, Mr. Gatchalian said DepEd must strengthen security measures that complement the anti-bullying policies and the School-Based Mental Health Program.
He also promised that the 2027 proposed national budget will provide sufficient support for these measures. — Francessca S. Abalos