The number of bullying cases in Western Visayas, which happened during the 2025-2026 school year, reached 966.
This is based on data gathered by the Department of Education (DepEd) in Region 6.
Most of the cases happened in Iloilo City at 452.
The 966 is broken down as follows:
- Iloilo City - 452 cases
- Guimaras - 213 cases
- Iloilo Province - 96 cases
- Capiz - 89 cases
- Antique - 76 cases
- Roxas City - 30 cases
- Passi City - 8 cases
- Aklan - 2 cases
Most of these cases involved students teasing fellow students. This is considered bullying, especially if it happens often.
According to a psychiatrist, there are many factors that can lead someone to engage in bullying, including the situation in the family. Whatever a child sees in the family, the child would consider this as something normal and may bring the behavior outside.
Other factors include peer pressure and social media.
The psychiatrist said the role of guidance counselors is crucial in guiding students in school.
In Region 6, however, this is tough demand on the 44 guidance counselors, a number that is way below the ideal count. The region needs 300 more counselors.
Parents hope the government can pay attention and fill this gap in the educational system so that violence and related incidents can be prevented.
On June 22, 2026, at least three students were killed and several others were injured when two minor students opened fire at a school in Tacloban City.
Authorities are looking into personal grudge that may have stemmed from bullying as possible motive in the shooting. Read story: https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/114523/school-bullying-eyed-as-motive-in-tacloban-school-shooting/story/
