Gatchalian urges Ateneo de Davao to tighten anti-bullying safeguards after restroom assault
The Senate President called for stronger counseling and mental health support after a junior high school student was dismissed over an assault caught on video.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday, Nov. 13, urged Ateneo de Davao University in Davao City to strengthen its anti-bullying measures following a physical assault involving junior high school students, according to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The incident reportedly took place inside a school restroom and drew public attention after videos of the assault spread on social media. The university said on Thursday that it had dismissed the student found responsible after disciplinary proceedings. Its investigation into whether other students were involved is still ongoing.
In a statement, Gatchalian said he was "deeply concerned" by the incident and extended his sympathy to the victim and his family. He asked the school to bolster its mental health support and counseling services to prevent a repeat, and said efforts to protect learners should go beyond disciplining those responsible.
The university has formed a University Task Force on Bullying Prevention and Safe Learning Environments. According to PNA, the body will review the school's policies, reporting mechanisms, response procedures and student support services. It will also consult students, parents, teachers and school staff to find gaps in current safeguards and recommend ways to protect those who report bullying from retaliation.
The university earlier said the victim and his family were receiving guidance and counseling support, and that the incident had been reported to the Department of Education (DepEd).
Under Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, all public and private elementary and secondary schools must adopt policies to prevent and address bullying. Revised implementing rules issued by DepEd in August 2025 also require schools to set up reporting and investigation procedures, provide interventions and counseling, and shield students who report bullying from reprisal.
Davao City has its own Anti-Bullying Ordinance as well. It covers physical, verbal, psychological and cyberbullying, and requires schools to put in place measures protecting students from harassment and violence.
Why it matters for Davao
The case puts a spotlight on how Davao City schools apply both the national Anti-Bullying Act and the city's own anti-bullying ordinance. Parents and students may see changes in how bullying is reported and handled at Ateneo de Davao once its task force completes its review.
This article was written by the DavaoNews desk with AI assistance, using reporting by pna. Facts come from the original report, which we credit and link below. Our editorial policy
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