Bullying not just a school issue but a national concern - DepEd

Emphasizing that bullying is no longer just a school issue but a widespread societal concern, the Department of Education (DepEd) has declared it a national priority.

- By MERLINA HERNANDO MALIPOT

“This is not just a school matter—it is a national priority that demands a whole-of-government, whole-of-society response,” said DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, as he convened the largest Executive Committee (Execom) meeting in DepEd's history.

Held last April 14, the meeting brought together key government agencies, civil society organizations, and academic experts to coordinate a response to the alarming rise in bullying incidents in schools.

DepEd said the meeting was convened following a directive from President Marcos, who had earlier expressed deep concern over the surge in reported bullying cases nationwide.

“To effectively combat bullying, we need to work not just inside the schools but also in the households and communities where our learners come from,” Angara said.

DepEd is calling for a comprehensive strategy to combat bullying, urging government agencies, local communities, and parents to join forces in addressing this pervasive problem.