The Anti-Bullying Act of 2012, Republic Act (RA) 10627 or the “Anti-Bullying Act of 2013”, served as the sentinel of students, teachers or anyone who can’t protect themselves from others who inflict harm to them physically or emotionally.
Bullying is defined as “any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property.” It also includes acts that create an environment at school that is not conducive for learning for the bully’s victim and which violates his rights. Physical violence like punching, pushing, shoving, kicking, slapping, tickling, headlocks, and teasing are prohibited as well. Cyber bullying, which is done through the use of technology or any electronic means, is also forbidden by law.
A bully would be required to undergo rehabilitation by the school, together with his or her parents. Schools would maintain a public record of bullies and their offenses. "The anti-bullying policies should be included in the school's student and employee handbook provided to students and parent-guardians," said Rep. Mary Mitzi Cajayon (2nd District, Caloocan City), one of the authors of the bill. The bill mandates the secretary of education to issue implementing rules and regulations.
Our government provided an act that can help our future leaders. This act helps to promote awareness to one's child's behavior. But, still, the responsibility befalls on every parent to teach and guide their children how to treat others properly. Not only they will make a better person but also a greater future ahead. Let’s do our best not to raise future killers or offenders .