What it is
Education Secretary Sonny Angara called upon technology and social media companies during a multisectoral forum on preventing nihilistic violent extremism. The call was made to implement stronger online safeguards against groups that recruit youth into violence.
Key points
- The President has directed all government agencies to find long-term solutions for the issue of school violence.
- The Department of Education formed a task force with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center to watch out for new dangers.
- Angara stated that stricter firewalls are needed, noting that current systems allow younger users to falsely claim they are 18 years old.
- DepEd has enhanced school safety measures, including adding security personnel, metal detectors, perimeter fences, and CCTV systems in some schools.
- DepEd has also worked with the Department of the Interior and Local Government to assign barangay tanods for campus security and police presence.
Who is affected
The efforts are aimed at protecting learners from online threats, including terrorist recruitment groups and online groomers. The DepEd has also expanded the Kaagapay Program to guide parents on protecting their children online and promoting mental health awareness.
What teachers should do
DepEd is bolstering learner support through the My Buddy System and encouraging participation in school clubs, organizations, scouting, and sports to provide positive spaces for students. Teachers are part of a broader effort involving various agencies like the Department of Justice, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Philippine National Police to unify action against school violence.
Source
Official source: deped.gov.ph