Photo credit: Senate PH

Senator Raffy Tulfo is calling for stricter measures to address bullying in schools, warning that the problem remains widespread despite an existing law designed to protect students.

In a recent statement posted online, Tulfo expressed alarm over the continuing reports of bullying incidents across the country and urged lawmakers to review and strengthen the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

“STOP BULLYING IN AND OUT OF SCHOOLS!” the senator wrote, stressing that bullying has become a serious issue affecting many students nationwide.

Call to review existing law

Tulfo said the current law may need to be strengthened as bullying continues to affect a significant number of students. He cited studies and reports indicating that a large portion of Filipino students have experienced bullying, highlighting the need for stronger preventive measures and faster responses to incidents.

Data previously reported by the Department of Education showed that recorded bullying incidents increased in the years following the law’s passage, with more cases being documented as reporting mechanisms improved in schools.

Tulfo warned that some bullying incidents have escalated into more serious violence.

“Ang nakakabahala pa ay ang iba sa mga ito ay nauuwi sa mga krimen ng pagpatay o serious physical injuries,” he said.

Proposed reforms

To address the issue, Tulfo said he filed a Senate bill seeking to amend and strengthen existing anti-bullying policies in schools.

Among the proposed measures are:

• Installation of CCTV cameras in classrooms and common school areas
• Increased police visibility outside school premises
Stricter penalties for schools that fail to act promptly on bullying complaints
• Mandatory counseling and psychological support for both victims and students involved in bullying incidents

Tulfo said these reforms aim to ensure schools respond more quickly to incidents and prevent cases from escalating into violence.

Call for stronger enforcement

The senator also urged the Department of Education to take a more proactive role in enforcing anti-bullying policies and improving monitoring in schools.

Under the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, schools are required to adopt policies that prevent and respond to bullying, including procedures for investigation and disciplinary action. Schools must also provide safe mechanisms for students and parents to report incidents.

Why the issue matters

Education advocates say bullying can have long-term effects on students’ mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and difficulty continuing their studies, while unchecked incidents can sometimes escalate into violence.

With millions of students enrolled in public and private schools nationwide, lawmakers and educators say strengthening anti-bullying protections is essential to maintaining safe learning environments.

Tulfo said improving the law and strengthening school accountability could help reduce bullying cases and better protect students both inside and outside school campuses.