The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) on Monday strongly condemned all forms of violence involving children following a series of incidents in schools, including the shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City and stabbing incidents reported in Cavite.
In a statement, the CWC said the Tacloban shooting, along with separate stabbing incidents at a private school in General Trias on June 16 and at a high school in Cavite City on June 20, underscore the urgent need to strengthen school-based child protection mechanisms, mental health programs, violence prevention initiatives, and early intervention systems.
“Schools must remain safe spaces where children can learn, develop, and thrive free from fear, violence, and harm. The occurrence of these violent incidents within educational settings serves as a serious reminder that protecting children requires constant vigilance and a sustained, whole-of-government and whole-of-society response,” the CWC said.
It added that schools must be supported with guidance services, psychosocial interventions, child protection structures, and referral systems capable of identifying risks, addressing behavioral concerns, and preventing violence before it escalates.
The council stressed that preventing violence requires more than security measures alone, and must include strengthening relationships, promoting emotional well-being, addressing bullying and behavioral concerns, and ensuring timely support for learners in distress.
The CWC extended condolences to the families of those killed in the Tacloban incident and expressed hope for the full recovery of injured students. It also called for the immediate provision of medical, psychosocial, and mental health support for affected learners, families, teachers, and school personnel.
It further welcomed the call for a thorough investigation into the incidents, stressing that all actions must be carried out in accordance with the law and with due regard for the rights and best interests of all involved, including the suspects who are minors and considered Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL).
Citing Republic Act No. 9344, as amended by Republic Act No. 10630, the CWC emphasized that CICLs should not be treated as criminals but as children requiring intervention and protection, and called for proper assessment and procedures under the law.
The council also urged the public to report incidents of violence, abuse, bullying, neglect, exploitation, or any situation placing children at risk through the MAKABATA Helpline 1383.