The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) have called for stronger nationwide support to address child bullying, particularly cases involving children with disabilities.
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said bullying—whether online or offline—has serious and lasting effects on children’s health and well-being.
“No child should ever be subjected to bullying, both in an online and offline setting. It not only disrupts learning among children and the youth but also carries serious and lasting effects on their overall health and well-being,” Dumlao said.
“It is, therefore, critical that we involve parents, family members, and the community to prevent and mitigate instances of bullying, starting at home,” she added.
The statement followed the death of a 15-year-old student in Quezon City, which the agencies linked to alleged bullying.
The DSWD extended condolences to the family and said it supports NCDA’s call to closely monitor the ongoing investigation, including the school’s response.
Dumlao urged stakeholders to work together to create a safe and supportive environment for children and youth, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for a whole-of-government approach to child protection and development.
“We call on parents, educators, community leaders, and institutions to take a firm stand against all forms of bullying. We need to foster an environment grounded in respect, empathy, and inclusivity—where children feel protected to express themselves without fear of judgment or ridicule,” she said.
The DSWD cited its Family Development Sessions (FDS) under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) as a key mechanism to combat bullying.
Dumlao said the sessions strengthen parenting skills and raise awareness of children’s emotional well-being, with discussions focused on identifying causes and forms of bullying, as well as coping and prevention strategies.
“Through the FDS sessions, we teach parents to understand and prevent bullying by cultivating a culture of open communication within the family unit,” she said.
Attendance at monthly FDS sessions is mandatory for 4Ps beneficiaries as part of efforts to empower marginalized families through education and support.
Dumlao added that anti-bullying interventions should address both victims and perpetrators.
“Interventions on anti-bullying should not only address the needs of victims but also guide those who engage in bullying toward accountability and positive behavioral change,” she said.
