Ateneo de Davao acts on bullying case involving junior high student

Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) in Davao City said on Wednesday, November 11, that it has taken steps to protect a junior high school student who was bullied, according to The Manila Times.

The school said the case was referred right away to its Junior High School Child Protection Committee. The committee has since finalized its findings in line with the student handbook and Republic Act 10627, the Anti-Bullying Act.

AdDU said it has reported the incident to the Department of Education and is continuing to coordinate with the agency. Students found responsible will face appropriate disciplinary measures and interventions, with due process, the university said.

The school expressed sympathy for the affected student and their family and apologized for what they had gone through. It said the family has been receiving guidance and counseling support. "No child should feel unsafe or afraid in school," the university said in its statement.

AdDU also called on the public to avoid judging the children involved and to refrain from online harassment. It said it must protect all minors in the case from further harm while it pursues accountability.

The university added that it is reviewing its safeguards. It plans to strengthen how faculty and staff spot signs of bullying, report concerns and respond to them. The school did not release details of the incident or the number of students involved.