MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo de Davao University has found itself at the center of controversy after a bullying incident struck its junior high school division. 

A viral video showed a student physically assaulting another student in the school’s comfort room. The clip showed the perpetrator repeatedly hitting and kicking the victim, while the latter remained defenseless. 

Incident brought up to DepEd

On November 11, Ateneo de Davao University said that it immediately moved to ensure the victim was safe, and informed the parents of all those involved. It also brought the case up to its junior high school child protection committee, and escalated it to the Department of Education (DepEd). 

“We are deeply sorry for the pain and distress they have endured. They have been receiving guidance and counseling support since then,” the school said. 

At the same time, Ateneo de Davao University also reiterated its duty to protect all the students involved from “public judgment, online harassment, and further harm.”

Junior high school student dismissed 

On November 13, Ateneo de Davao University said it dismissed the student responsible for the bullying incident “effective immediately.” It also said that investigations regarding the other aspects of the incident will continue. 

The school also promised to support the student who was harmed by the incident. 

As investigations continue, the school has also ordered its University Task Force on Bullying Prevention and Safe Learning Environments to review how bullying concerns are addressed. It will also go over its policies and support services. 

“Alongside these safeguards, the Task Force will examine how our formation programs and pastoral care can better nurture empathy, respect for human dignity, responsibility for one’s actions, and the courage to intervene when others are harmed. It will recommend ways to strengthen guidance, counseling, spiritual support, and accompaniment for students and families affected by bullying,” the school said. 

“This includes helping students who have harmed others recognize the consequences of their actions, accept accountability, and grow in compassion and responsibility.”

Ateneo de Davao University also stressed that violence and bullying will not be tolerated, and that those who harm others will be held accountable with due process.

Under Republic Act 10627, schools are required to enforce anti-bullying policies and ensure that investigations into such incidents are done properly. It also requires schools to put rehabilitation procedures in place for all those affected. – Rappler.com