Senator Win Gatchalian is urging parents and schools to take more proactive measures to prevent school violence.
This call follows a stabbing incident at a public school in Parañaque that resulted in the death of a Grade 8 student.
Gatchalian had previously raised concerns about similar stabbing incidents in Pasig and Iloilo involving minors last February.
He also stressed the importance of local government units (LGUs) collaborating with schools to prevent students from engaging in violent acts.
The senator from Valenzuela highlighted the critical role of both parents and schools in maintaining discipline among students.
While Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, exempts children aged 15 and under from criminal liability, the Civil Code holds parents accountable for civil liability if they fail to exercise due diligence in preventing harm caused by their children.
The Family Code also recognizes that schools, teachers, and administrators have special parental authority and responsibility while children are in their care. Under this code, they can also be held civilly liable for any damages caused by students while under their supervision.
“Nakakalungkot at nakakabahala na nagiging mas madalas ang mga insidente ng karahasan sa ating mga paaralan. Kailangan nating magtulungan kasama ng ating mga magulang at mga guro lalo na’t tungkulin nila ang paggabay at pagtuturo ng disiplina sa ating mga mag-aaral,” said Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.IMT
