CBCP laments Phl topping 70 countries in youth bullying

The Philippines’ being ranked first among 70 countries with school bullying problem is a lamentable development that should be dealt with by engaging families, schools and small communities, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said yesterday.

In a statement, Daet Bishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, CBCP’s chairman for youth, said addressing the increase of bullying incidents in Philippine schools should be a concern for all.

“We are saddened by the information about the increase of bullying incidents in our country. It is not only an educational problem. It should be a concern for all… We call on everyone, as we commit ourselves, to raise awareness and promote a culture of safety, of peace and solidarity. This is a call to go back to the family, the school and our small communities,” Alarcon said.

In a Senate hearing on the implementation of the anti-bullying law last week, it was reported that at least seven out of 10 students in public schools have suffered bullying.

Based on the Department of Education’s records, cases of bullying increased since the anti-bullying law took effect in 2013 as more people have started reporting bullying, especially in schools.

The DepEd reported that 1,309 cases of bullying were reported in academic year 2013-2014; 5,624 cases in 2014-2015; 7,221 cases in 2015-2016; 8,750 cases in 2016-2017; 15,866 cases in 2017-2018; 21,521 in 2018-2019, and 11,637 cases in 2019-2020.

“The better solution is not simply reporting but building and promoting a safe culture and environment, especially for the young and vulnerable… We are sorry for the victims of bullying. Let us strive to end the cycle of bullying where it exists, for we are capable of kindness, trust and love,” Alarcon said.

“May our faith in a loving God lead us to work for a more humane society and continue to deepen the bonds of our common humanity as we foster respect for fellow human beings and for all creation,” he added.