DepEd strengthens anti-bullying policy through updated guidelines

The Department of Education (DepEd) has published revised rules to reinforce its anti-bullying policy, aiming to ensure that schools respond promptly and effectively to cases of bullying among students.

On Monday, Education Secretary Sonny Angara signed the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10627, also known as the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

"School is a place for learning, not for abuse. Bullying has no place in any corner of our schools or our society," Angara said during the signing ceremony, according to a DepEd statement.

The updated IRR applies to all public and private basic education institutions, including community learning centers and overseas schools under DepEd supervision. All schools are now mandated to implement a standardized anti-bullying policy that includes:

• School-wide prevention and early intervention programs
• Clear responsibilities for students, teachers, parents or guardians, and school heads
• Transparent procedures for addressing, resolving, and appealing complaints

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the importance of prioritizing the mental health of Filipino learners, citing the ongoing emotional struggles many students face. He stressed the need to pair academic interventions with strong mental health support systems.

According to a report by PISA in 2022, one out of three students are being bullied in school in forms of physical abuse, threatening, and victims of malicious rumors.