By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Department of Education (DepEd) vowed on Thursday, Sept. 8, “zero-tolerance” policy against abuse and violence in schools.
In a statement, DepEd Spokesperson Michael Poa assured they are taking all reports about sexual abuse and violence against learners “seriously.”
“[We] are determined to ensure that schools all over the country are safe spaces for our learners and free from sexual predators,” Poa said.
“We understand that reporting experiences of sexual abuse and violence are often hampered by fear and feeling of embarrassment, but we urge Kindergarten to Grade 12 victim-survivors to report these incidents directly to the Office of the Secretary,” he added.
Poa assured students that their reports and identities will be “treated with utmost confidentiality.” – gb
