The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City has approved a resolution strengthening school-based mental health, counseling and anti-bullying programs in Bacolod City, Councilor Caesar Distrito said Monday, August 24.
The resolution authored by Distrito calls upon the Department of Education – Schools Division of Bacolod City, Commission on Higher Education, City Health Office, Department of Social Services and Development, and all public and private educational institutions to strengthen school-based mental health programs, guidance and counseling services, anti-bullying mechanisms, and early-intervention and referral systems for students who need psychosocial support.
Distrito said the measure recognizes that ensuring school safety goes beyond physical security and must also include the mental and emotional well-being of students.
“Keeping our schools safe is not only about gates, security personnel, CCTV cameras, or keeping weapons out of our campuses. We must also make sure that our students have someone to turn to when they are struggling, being bullied, experiencing emotional difficulties, or simply need help. Early intervention and proper support can make a significant difference in a young person’s life.”
The resolution is anchored on Republic Act No. 11036, or the Mental Health Act; Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013; and Bacolod City Ordinance No. 08-15-721, the City’s anti-bullying ordinance. It encourages schools to strengthen mechanisms for identifying students who may need assistance, provide timely guidance and counseling, ensure appropriate professional referrals, and effectively implement anti-bullying policies and reporting mechanisms.
Distrito stressed that these efforts should be implemented in a manner that encourages students to seek help without fear of judgment or stigma.
In a separate resolution also authored by Distrito the SP expressed the profound sympathy, condolences, and solidarity of the City Government and the people of Bacolod City with the victims, their families, students, faculty, personnel, and the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga University community following the August 18 shooting incident at its Junior High School campus.
The tragedy resulted in the loss of two young lives and injuries to others, bringing grief not only to the families directly affected but also to the wider school and Zamboanga City communities.
Distrito said that an act of violence occurring inside a school resonates deeply with parents, educators, students, and communities throughout the country because schools should always represent safety, learning, friendship, and hope.
“On behalf of the people of Bacolod City, we extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to the families who lost their loved ones, to those who were injured, and to the entire Ateneo de Zamboanga community. Although we are separated by distance, we share in their grief and stand with them as they begin the difficult process of healing and recovery.”
Distrito said the tragedy should also serve as a reminder to communities throughout the country of the shared responsibility to protect young people and ensure that educational institutions remain safe and supportive spaces.*
[sibwp_form id=1]