PHILIPPINES — The Senate Committee on Basic Education tackled the School Safety Act which aims to strengthen the safety and security inside and outside school premises, this Thursday, July 9.
According to Committee Chairperson Sen Bam Aquino, the School Safety Act’s objective is to strengthen the security of schools within the country, inluding the expansion of CCTVs and the improvement of mental health and psychosocial well-being services for students.
The hearing also addressed the drowning of student athletes Rene Baterbonia and Devine Adili, as well as the shooting incidents that occurred in Tacloban City, which left three students dead.
According to Sen. Aquino, these incidents in schools serve as a wake-up call to implement policies that will protect students, teachers, and staff.
“Ang mga paaralan ay dapat ligtas, ang mga estudyante at dapat ligtas at ang school safety act ay dapat gawing prayoridad ng ating gobyerno,” said Aquino during the hearing.
Committees on Higher and Vocational Education, Science and Technology; Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation; Justice and Human Rights; and Finance also attended the hearing. — Rhylien Joy Dela Cruz, Contributor