The Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday decided to dismiss the junior high school student who was caught in a video bullying a schoolmate.
University president Jose Ramon Villarin said they reached the decision “after a thorough investigation that included listening to all parties involved.”
“This means that he is no longer allowed to come back to the Ateneo. I have spoken to the parents of both students about this decision and we have offered the families continued support to help them overcome this difficult time,” Villarin said in a university memorandum released Sunday.
“We are continuing the investigation as there are other matters involved in the incident.”
Villarin made his statement even as Senator Grace Poe cited the need to revisit the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 to fill in some gaps as to the role of the schools in dealing with bullies.
“Anyone who has seen the video of the violent bullying incident would understand that bullying is a despicable act that insults our humanity,” Poe said.
“There is an Anti-Bullying law in place. However, we believe it should be strengthened to require concrete and timely action from schools,” said Poe, vice-chairperson of the Senate committee on public order.”
Villarin said Ateneo remained “very clear” on its stand against bullying.