PNP ready to address bullying in schools

CATBALOGAN CITY — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is willing to assist student victims of bullying, an official of the Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas said Wednesday.

Police regional director Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria said there was no reported incidents of bullying yet in schools in the region but informed that he already directed all police chiefs to avoid the problem as part of their security plan implementation. “Bullying is among our concerns,” he said. The region’s top cop informed that proper coordination has already been made with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), school officials, Parents-Teachers and Community Association (PTCA) and other civic organizations.

The police in Region 8, in coordination with school officials, established Police Assistance Desks (PADs) in schools and universities where parents and students can report cases of bullying or any security concerns. The PADs will be stationed in schools until June 18. Bullying has been cited as one of the most common forms of violence in schools. It would come in the act of teasing, mockery or just making fun of a student by their peers who claim superiority over the other.

This act if not properly addressed will impact on the child’s social, physical, psychological and emotional growth.

Meanwhile, Soria warned the public, especially the students, to be more vigilant while going to school particularly while on-board public utility vehicles as criminals may take advantage and commit petty crimes.

“Parents and students should mind and secure their belongings at all times. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the parents to keep their eyes on their children in going and leaving their respective school premises,” the police official added.