CHR to probe allegations teachers in Cavite, Camarines Norte abused students

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) will launch a separate investigation into the alleged abuse of students by several teachers in Cavite and Camarines Norte.

According to the Department of Education (DepEd), six teachers are now under investigation due to the reported sexual harassment that occurred at Bacoor National High School in Cavite.

A teacher in Camarines Norte, meanwhile, will face administrative proceedings after a viral social media post accused him of verbally abusing a Grade 5 student during the first day of classes.

"Both cases, if confirmed to be true, are condemnable incidents that betray the trust children and parents put [in] schools as safe havens for learning," CHR Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a press statement on Wednesday.

"To ascertain the truth behind these allegations and render aid to those afflicted, the CHR, through its Regional Offices in Region IV-A and V, will be conducting its own independent inquiry into this matter," she added.

De Guia also welcomed the DepEd’s recognition of the reports of abuse and its investigation and protection of victims in both incidents.

She also urged the department to continue working with educational institutions to strengthen "reporting, prevention, and remedial measures" in addressing exploitation, violence, discrimination, bullying, and other acts of abuse as schools reopen.

"In all of this, CHR reminds educational institutions, including the government as the prime duty holder of human rights, that we must always uphold the best interest of the child," De Guia said.

"A child’s right to education goes beyond discussions on access, but equally encompasses the quality of education received and the conditions that make learning and development conducive.” —VBL, GMA News