DepEd vows accountability in Baguio bullying case

The Department of Education (DepEd) has condemned a viral bullying incident in Baguio City even as school officials appealed to the public not to circulate the video.

According to a “24 Oras” report by Vonne Aquino on Friday, several students were seen kicking and punching their schoolmate in a private lot in Baguio City. One of them was also seen using a belt to hit the victim, while onlookers could be heard laughing in the background.

The incident happened on Wednesday near the students’ school. At least 11 students were reportedly involved, aside from the victim.

While GMA News blurred the faces and withheld the names of those involved, the video and identities of the students have already circulated online. School officials appealed to the public not to share the video to protect the children involved.

Some individuals have also reportedly threatened the students and their parents.

In a statement, DepEd said its regional office had activated child protection mechanisms and that the learners involved would receive necessary psychosocial and medical support.

“DepEd will not tolerate violence. Physically assaulting another learner is a serious offense and can lead to removal from the school. Those responsible will be held accountable,” the department said.

“DepEd will fully cooperate with the Baguio City Police Office Women and Children Protection Desk and other proper authorities in any legal proceedings,” it added.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong also condemned the incident.

“While we do not condone these acts among the youth, we should also respect the dignity, privacy and well-being of the children involved,” Magalong said. —Jean Mangaluz/VBL, GMA News