(Screengrab from Senate livestream)
MANILA, Philippines – Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday, November 13, urged Ateneo de Davao University to strengthen its anti-bullying policies and mental health support services following a physical assault involving junior high school students that led to the dismissal of one student.
Gatchalian expressed concern over the incident, which reportedly occurred inside a school restroom and gained public attention after videos of the assault circulated on social media.
“Bullying has once again reared its ugly head—this time at the Ateneo de Davao University Junior High School. I am deeply concerned by this incident and extend my heartfelt sympathy to the victim and his family,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
“While the student found responsible has been dismissed, I urge the Ateneo de Davao University to strengthen its anti-bullying measures, including mental health support and counseling services, to prevent similar incidents in the future,” he added.
The university confirmed Thursday that it had dismissed the student found responsible after completing disciplinary proceedings.
However, its investigation into the possible involvement of other students remains ongoing.
In response to the incident, Ateneo de Davao University announced the creation of a University Task Force on Bullying Prevention and Safe Learning Environments.
The task force will review existing anti-bullying policies, reporting systems, investigation procedures and student support services to identify gaps in the school’s protective measures.
It will also consult students, parents, teachers and school personnel to develop stronger safeguards, including mechanisms to protect students who report bullying from possible retaliation.
The university earlier confirmed that the victim and his family were receiving guidance and counseling support. The incident was also reported to the Department of Education (DepEd).
Gatchalian emphasized that protecting students from violence requires sustained preventive measures beyond imposing disciplinary sanctions.
“Patuloy nating isusulong ang mga programa upang sugpuin ang karahasan sa mga paaralan at itaguyod ang kaligtasan at kapakanan ng ating mga mag-aaral (We will continue advancing programs to combat violence in schools and promote the safety and welfare of our learners),” he said.
Under Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, public and private elementary and secondary schools are required to establish policies to prevent and address bullying.
DepEd’s revised implementing rules, issued in August 2025, further require schools to maintain reporting and investigation procedures, provide appropriate interventions and counseling, and protect students who report incidents from retaliation.
Davao City also implements a local Anti-Bullying Ordinance covering physical, verbal, psychological and cyberbullying, requiring educational institutions to adopt measures against harassment and violence.
The incident has renewed attention on the implementation of school safety policies and the need for accessible counseling and reporting mechanisms to protect learners.
