The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Bacolod has approved a resolution urging concerned agencies and educational institutions to intensify the implementation of Bacolod City’s Anti-Bullying Ordinance, Councilor Caesar Distrito said on Thursday, June 25.
Authored by Distrito and co-authored by Councilors Danna Marie Barzo, Celia Flor, and Pao Sy, the resolution calls for reinforced child protection and school safety measures across all campuses in the city.
The measure was prompted by a recent tragic school violence incident in Tacloban City, which has sparked nationwide discussions on bullying, youth violence, mental health, and campus safety.
While recognizing that the investigation into that incident is still ongoing, the Bacolod City Council emphasized that local governments and schools must take proactive steps to prevent similar tragedies.
Specifically, the resolution calls upon the following entities to strengthen existing anti-bullying programs and conduct a citywide assessment of current initiatives:
- Department of Education (DepEd)–Bacolod City Division
- All public and private schools in the city
- Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO)
- Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD)
- City Health Office (CHO)
- Public Order & Safety Office (POSO)
Key measures encouraged under the resolution include reviewing school anti-bullying policies, ensuring the functionality of Child Protection Committees, strengthening guidance and counseling services, and establishing confidential reporting mechanisms for bullying and threats.
It also advocates for regular seminars on conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and violence prevention, alongside a strict review of campus security measures regarding dangerous weapons.
Distrito said the resolution and the original Bacolod City Anti-Bullying Ordinance, emphasize that preventing violence begins long before an incident occurs.
“The tragedy in Tacloban reminds us that child protection cannot be taken for granted,” Distrito said.
“Our Anti-Bullying Ordinance must not remain merely a law on paper; it must be fully implemented in every school. Every child deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, supportive, and free from fear”, he said.
Barzo highlighted the deeper emotional toll of student harassment, noting that early intervention is critical.
Flor underscored the importance of schools serving as genuine safe spaces, adding that “child protection is a shared responsibility among families, schools, communities, and government agencies.”
Sy stressed that strengthening mental health support and preventive education can help identify concerns early and prevent situations from escalating into violence.*
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