Senator Bam Aquino- Photo courtesy of Bam Aquino/Facebook.
Senator Bam Aquino is pushing for a comprehensive school safety system that would require schools to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against bullying, violence, abuse, harassment and other harmful acts.
Under Senate Bill No. 2390, or the proposed Comprehensive School Safety Act, schools would be required to establish accessible reporting channels and respond promptly to safety concerns involving learners, teachers and other personnel.
Aquino said schools now face a wider range of threats that require a more coordinated response.
“Schools face a range of threats to the safety and well-being of learners and school personnel, including bullying, violence, abuse, harassment, emergencies, digital risks, unsafe conditions, and other emerging risks,” he said.
The bill would direct the Department of Education (DepEd), concerned agencies and stakeholders, to create a National Comprehensive School Safety Framework covering anti-bullying measures, security, digital safety, mental health, emergency preparedness and incident reporting.
Each school would also be required to prepare and update a School Safety Plan annually, covering emergency procedures, hotlines, infrastructure, digital risks, off-campus activities, community coordination and monitoring.
Depending on their risk profile, schools could be equipped with CCTV cameras, screening equipment, metal detectors, visitor management systems, security personnel, perimeter protection and emergency alert systems.
“We need systems that prevent harm, prepare schools to respond when risks arise, and provide the support necessary for recovery when incidents occur,” he said, highlighting that prevention should be given as much attention as response.
The measure also calls for regular safety assessments, emergency drills, annual school safety audits, psychosocial support, peer programs and early intervention.
“We owe this to our teachers, who deserve a safe place to teach. And we owe it to every parent and guardian, to assure them that their government is doing everything to protect their children and keep them safe,” the senator noted.