The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has reiterated that school administrators must take the lead in addressing bullying, even as it welcomed efforts by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to support anti-bullying measures.
In a statement Thursday, the CHR acknowledged the PNP’s directive to accept bullying complaints through the 911 emergency hotline, calling it a “significant step” in improving child protection mechanisms.
However, the CHR emphasized that “educational institutions must ensure swift, appropriate, and child-sensitive responses to reports of bullying,” in line with the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.
It also warned against criminalizing children involved in bullying cases. “Students involved in bullying, whether as victims or perpetrators, must not be treated as criminals,” the commission said.
Instead, the CHR recommended restorative and developmental approaches that promote empathy, accountability, and respect among students. The agency vowed continued collaboration with the Department of Education, PNP, and other stakeholders to reduce the harmful effects of bullying on children’s development.
