The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) will conduct its own investigation into the alleged abuse made by teachers in Cavite and Camarines Norte.
In a press statement released on Wednesday, Aug. 31, CHR executive director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said the recent reports are concerning as teachers who are tasked with educating young children committed actions that are “unbecoming of their role as educators.”
In Cavite, six teachers were recently reported for alleged sexual harassment including grooming and use of sexual remarks of their students in Bacoor National High School.
While a teacher in Camarines Norte was reported for allegedly verbally abusing a grade 5 student in Camarines Norte for his failure to accomplish a writing activity during the first day of in-person classes.
“Both cases, if confirmed to be true, are condemnable incidents that betray the trust children and parents put on schools as safe havens for learning,” de Guia said.
She said CHR through its regional offices in Region IV-A will conduct an independent investigation to uncover the truth behind the allegations and help the student victims.
De Guia added that CHR welcomed the Department of Education (DepEd) for its recognition of the two reports and immediate action to investigate and protect victims.
DepEd recently announced that the six teachers in Cavite are under investigation, while the teacher in Camarines Norte would face administrative proceedings.
She said the commission urged DepEd to continue working with educational institutions in “strengthening reporting, prevention, and remedial measures” in addressing exploitation, violence, discrimination, bullying, and other acts of abuse, as schools recently reopens.
The executive director reminds educational institutions and the government who are the prime duty holders of human rights, to always uphold the best interest of children.
“A child’s right to education goes beyond discussions on access, but equally encompasses the quality of education received and the conditions that make learning and development conducive,” she added.
