Parañaque schools division investigating alleged sexual abuse involving teacher
Warning: This article includes a mention of sexual abuse.
The Schools Division Office of Parañaque is looking into reports of sexual abuse involving a male teacher and a student after a video that appeared to show inappropriate conduct inside the classroom made the rounds on social media over the weekend.
"We wish to assure our learners, parents, personnel, and stakeholders that these allegations are being treated with the utmost seriousness, urgency, and impartiality. The Schools Division Office has initiated the appropriate processes and is undertaking the necessary actions in accordance with existing laws, Department of Education policies, child protection protocols, and due process requirements," the SDO said in a statement on June 21.
The office has encouraged victims, witnesses, and individuals who may possess relevant information to submit reports via legal.paranaque@deped.gov.ph and paac.paranaque@deped.gov.ph.
"All reports shall be treated with appropriate confidentiality and handled in accordance with applicable laws and regulations," it continued.
The SDO further said that it is committed to "ensuring a safe, secure, and child-friendly learning environment, upholding accountability, and protecting the rights, dignity, and well-being of every learner."
On June 21, the Parañaque National High School issued an official advisory about a "viral incident allegedly involving a teacher and a student," stating that it is "currently reviewing the matter and gathering all relevant information." It also urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information or speculation while information is under review.
In another statement issued later in the day, the institution said it condemns any form of harassment on and off campus. "Ang kaayusan at kapakanan ng bawat mag-aaral ang aming prayoridad. Tinitiyak namin na ang sinumang mapatunayang may pananagutan ay haharap sa nararapat na aksyon at pananagutan, alinsunod sa umiiral na batas at polisiya ng DepEd."
"Naniniwala kami na ang karahasan ay hindi kailanman ang sagot. Kaya naman, inaaasahan namin ang mahinahong pagharap at pagtugon ng lahat sa anumang kaguluhan o alalahanin," the school added. "Bukas ang aming Guidance Office at Child Protection Committee para sa paghingi ng tulong, payo, at suporta."
On June 22, students from Parañaque National High School staged a protest against the supposed teacher-student sexual abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available.
- Bantay Bata Helpline 163: Free and confidential support over the phone. Lines open every day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- NCMH Crisis Hotline: Free, compassionate, and confidential support over the phone. Lines open 24/7. Tel:1800-1888-1553
- Philippine National Police (PNP) Hotline: 911 | Aling Pulis Text Hotline: 0919-7777-377 / 0966-7255-961 / 0920-9071-717
- Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) Makabata Helpline: 0915-8022-375 / 0960-3779-863