The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called for immediate and proactive interventions to address bullying and violence involving minors, following the stabbing of a student in Silang, Cavite.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said bullying should not be dismissed as a normal childhood conflict, warning that violence among children can have long-term effects on their growth and development.
“The DSWD appeals to all sectors for a stronger whole-of-nation approach and the urgency in responding to reported cases of bullying and violence against children occurring in schools and nearby premises,” Dumlao said Monday, June 29.
“Bullying must be addressed immediately. Bullying, in any form, is not just a simple disagreement among children, whether in school or in the community. It should not be tolerated or dismissed as just a part of childhood,” she added.
The DSWD made the appeal after authorities reported an incident in Silang, Cavite, involving a 15-year-old student who allegedly stabbed a 17-year-old schoolmate.
Based on the report of the Cavite Police Provincial Office, the altercation happened outside school premises and escalated after the older student allegedly punched the younger student several times. The younger student then allegedly retaliated by stabbing the victim once in the lower abdomen with a bladed weapon.
The DSWD Field Office 4-A has reached out to the victim’s family and provided ₱10,000 in medical assistance.
Dumlao said the DSWD and its attached agencies will continue coordinating with concerned agencies, particularly the Department of Education, to help protect learners from bullying and school violence.
She said government response should go beyond discipline after an incident has occurred, stressing the need for stronger systems for early detection, reporting, intervention, and support for both victims and children who commit acts of bullying.
“Addressing bullying is not only about responding to incidents after they happen. It should go beyond disciplinary action, and there must be a collective commitment to promote empathy, accountability, respect, and positive relationships among learners,” Dumlao said.
She also emphasized the role of parents and guardians in correcting negative behavior at home.
“Parents and guardians should not transfer the responsibility of disciplining their children to teachers. They should maintain open communication with their children, guide them to resolve conflicts peacefully, and closely work with teachers and school officials to address bullying incidents before they worsen,” Dumlao said.
The DSWD said the call is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for government agencies to work together in addressing violence involving minors in schools and communities.