Teacher Protection Bill Gains Traction After Davao Assault

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines on Wednesday renewed its calls to pass the Teacher Protection Bill, following students’ alleged assault on a teacher in Davao de Oro. "This incident is a clear symptom of the lack of adequate protection and authority given to teachers to enforce discipline in schools," the group said in Filipino in a statement. "While we recognize the importance of the Child Protection Policy, its lack of balance often leaves teachers defenseless and with their hands tied when it comes to maintaining discipline," it added. The proposed Teacher Protection Bill aims to amend Republic Act 7610, or the Child Abuse Law, clarifying that disciplinary actions taken by teachers and school personnel in accordance with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) rules and procedures would not constitute “child abuse”. The bill also seeks DepEd to provide pre-service and in-service training on child behavior and psychology, classroom management techniques, positive discipline, and other related fields. "The proposed measure aims to empower teachers to effectively fulfill their role as in loco parentis, or second parents, that has the authority to enforce discipline with appropriate guidance and legal protection," ACT Philippines said. The renewed calls come after two Grade 10 students allegedly attacked a 55-year-old male teacher at the Elizalde National High School in Maco, Davao de Oro, on Monday. According to local police, the incident occurred after the teacher called out one of the students for allegedly wearing earrings in violation of the school’s policy. The student allegedly attempted to hit the teacher but was stopped by classmates; however, the student’s brother reportedly struck the teacher from behind. In a statement, DepEd said it "deeply regrets" the altercation, and assured a thorough investigation is currently underway by the school administration and local authorities. "Schools must remain safe spaces built on mutual respect and safety for both our learners and educators," the agency said. "DepEd remains firm in its commitment to protecting the welfare of our educators while guiding our learners with compassion and accountability." The agency noted that the involved teacher sustained physical injuries and has filed a complaint with the police. — Almira Louise S. Martinez