MANILA, Philippines - School officials were reminded yesterday to ensure that the rights and welfare of children are upheld and respected, following reports of teachers inflicting severe punishment on students.
In a statement, the Department of Education (DepEd) said it would like to reiterate that no form of humiliation or emotional abuse is deemed necessary or justifiable, even if done with the intention of teaching responsibility.
“Let it be remembered that children learn best by doing and that during the years they spend in school, they are most heavily influenced by authority figures,” the DepEd said.
“As such, no excuses should ever be made for corporal punishment and similar actions.”
DepEd said it received the formal report on the incident involving a teacher and Citizen’s Army Training facilitator who supposedly hit a Grade 10 student at the Zeferino Arroyo High School in Iriga City on Aug. 3.
A video supposedly taken at San Isidro National High School in Camarines Sur also showed a student who was ordered to kneel outside the classroom, exposed to heat, as punishment for being late.
DepEd did not identify the parties involved in the two incidents.
“The DepEd would like to reiterate that even though teachers and school administrators hold authority over students, they are also responsible for their welfare and protection,” DepEd said.
“While the DepEd is one with the belief that education should also instill and reinforce the values of respect, responsibility and discipline, it does not, without reservations, condone any act of violence or abuse in the conduct thereof.”
DepEd expressed concern specifically on the incident that happened in the CAT class.
It was unclear if penalties were imposed on the teachers involved, who reportedly have expressed remorse.