DepEd's Angara orders review of learner protection systems after Tacloban shooting

Education Secretary Sonny Angara has ordered a review of learner protection mechanisms in schools following the deadly shooting incident in Tacloban City, saying the tragedy highlights the need for stronger systems to identify and support at-risk learners before problems escalate.

“The tragedy in Tacloban is a painful reminder that learner protection requires constant vigilance and shared commitment. While investigations will establish the facts surrounding this incident, we must also ask what more can be done to better support our learners and strengthen protective systems around them,” Angara said in a statement issued Wednesday.

“This is a conversation that must involve not only schools, but families, communities, local governments, and all institutions entrusted with the welfare of children,” he added.

The Department of Education (DepEd) said the incident underscored the need to strengthen learner protection systems both inside and outside schools, noting that preventing violence requires early intervention and sustained support from families, communities, schools, and government agencies.

Review

In response to the incident, Angara ordered a school-level review of the implementation of the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE), as well as existing child protection, anti-bullying, and school-based mental health programs.

The review will cover the implementation of the Child Protection Policy under DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012, anti-bullying measures under Republic Act No. 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, and mental health and psychosocial support programs available to learners.

According to DepEd, these mechanisms should be aligned with the protocols of other government agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and local government units.

The department said learner safety should not be viewed solely through the lens of physical security.

“Effective protection also requires strong child protection mechanisms, mental health and psychosocial support, anti-bullying interventions, family engagement, and accessible pathways for learners who may be experiencing difficulties to seek help,” DepEd said.

Meanwhile, the Schools Division Office of Tacloban City has conducted emergency security meetings with school officials and mobilized psychological first aid and psychosocial support services for affected learners, parents, and school personnel in coordination with government agencies and civic organizations.

DepEd said classes in 57 public schools in Tacloban resumed Wednesday after a temporary suspension to allow students and personnel to process the incident emotionally.

However, San Jose Central School and Manlurip Elementary School have shifted to education-in-emergencies modalities, while classes at San Jose National High School remain suspended until June 26.

The department also plans to engage stakeholders from the education, health, social welfare, child protection, law enforcement, local government, and civil society sectors to strengthen coordination and intervention mechanisms for learners who may be at risk.

According to DepEd, the discussions will focus on improving referral pathways, reinforcing support systems, strengthening family and community engagement, and ensuring that vulnerable learners receive timely assistance. — RSJ, GMA News