By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has urged concerned agencies and educational institutions to intensify the implementation of the city’s anti-bullying ordinance and reinforce child protection and safety measures across all schools in the city.
The resolution was prompted by the recent tragic school violence incident in Tacloban City, which has sparked nationwide discussions on bullying, youth violence, mental health, and campus safety.
While recognizing that the investigation into the incident remains ongoing, Councilor Cesar Distrito said the measure emphasizes that local governments and schools must take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
The SP called on the Department of Education – Bacolod City Division, all public and private schools, the Bacolod City Police Office, the Department of Social Services and Development, the City Health Office, Public Order and Safety Office, and other concerned agencies to strengthen existing anti-bullying programs, reinforce child protection policies, improve school safety protocols, and conduct a citywide assessment of current anti-bullying initiatives.
Among the measures encouraged are the review of school anti-bullying policies, ensuring the functionality of child protection committees, strengthening guidance and counseling services, establishing confidential reporting mechanisms for bullying and threats, conducting regular seminars on conflict resolution, mental health awareness and violence prevention, and reviewing school security measures, including policies against the possession of dangerous weapons on school campuses.
Distrito emphasized that preventing violence begins long before an incident occurs.
“The tragedy in Tacloban reminds us that child protection cannot be taken for granted. While we await the results of the investigation, this is the right time to strengthen our preventive measures. Our anti-bullying ordinance must not remain merely a law on paper, it must be fully implemented in every school. Every child deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, supportive and free from fear,” he said.
For her part, Councilor Danna Marie Barzo said bullying is often more than just teasing or conflict among students.
“Bullying, intimidation, harassment, social exclusion, and cyberbullying can leave deep emotional and psychological scars. Early intervention, effective counseling, active parental involvement, and coordinated action among schools, government agencies, and communities are essential in protecting our children,” she said.
Councilor Celia Flor also underscored the importance of schools serving as safe spaces where students feel secure, heard, and valued.
“Child protection is a shared responsibility among families, schools, communities, and government agencies, and that collaboration is essential in preventing violence,” Flor said.
Meanwhile, Councilor Psyche Marie Sy said strengthening mental health support, counseling services and preventive education can help identify concerns early and prevent situations from escalating into violence./MAP, WDJ