Question & AnswerQ&A (DepEd ORDER NO. 55, S. 2013)
The short title is the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.
All public and private kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools and learning centers are covered.
Bullying is defined as any severe or repeated use by one or more students of written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, directed at another student that causes or places the latter in fear of harm or damage, creates a hostile environment, infringes rights, or disrupts education or orderly operation of the school.
Physical contact like punching and slapping; acts harming psyche or emotional well-being; slanderous statements causing distress; cyber-bullying through electronic means; social bullying; gender-based bullying; and other forms as per school policies consistent with the Act.
Provisions on prohibited acts, prevention and intervention programs, mechanisms and procedures to address bullying.
On school grounds; immediately adjacent property; school-related activities and programs; school buses and bus stops; through technology owned or used by the school; and even in non-school related locations or activities if connected to school.
They must conduct awareness programs; ensure policy implementation; monitor all bullying cases reported; make referrals for assistance and intervention; and perform other tasks to handle bullying cases as per DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012.
Immediate intervention to stop bullying; ensure safety of victim; separate involved students; inform parents/guardians; fill up an Intake Sheet; investigate through private interviews; and develop intervention strategies within 24 hours if needed.
Measures range from written reprimand, community service, suspension, exclusion, or expulsion, depending on the severity of the act, with due process observed. The bully must also undergo intervention programs.
The student and parents must be informed in writing of the complaint, given opportunity to answer in writing, be provided a written decision with facts and reasons, and may appeal the decision to the Division Office.