Systems work well when balance is maintained and kept. To put matters in order, smooth, and sustainable legislative policies are put in place. Policies are formulated in order to address specific concerns and issues which are used as guides to improve and develop to achieve their objectives. Policies also include corresponding rules and regulations to sustain its implementation.
At one point in time, some arguments were raised when the Child Protection Policy in schools was issued and implemented. Some quarters raised their reservations that it may put into prejudice the serving of discipline to erring students. In the light of the child protection policy, mitigation of child abuse is to be reconciled with forms of violations where children can be recognized as victims of harmful acts that threaten their rights.
On the other hand, we are witnesses to recent news about the sad fate of some teachers succumbing to alleged pressures in the performance of their duties in school; notwithstanding, the misdemeanors of students. In view of this, concerned lawmakers crafted and formulated a bill that will address any imbalance which may be present in promoting discipline inside educational institutions by virtue of the mandated child protection policy.
In 2016, the House Committee on basic education and culture has approved a bill that seeks the protection of public school teachers and personnel against allegation of child abuse. With it are instituted support mechanisms that will serve as implementing guidelines. House Bill 58, otherwise known as the “Teacher Protection Act of 2016 seeks to amend Republic Act 7610 or the “Special Protection of Children Against
Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.” The protection act for teachers particularly recognizes the educators who are at the forefront in the delivery of education to millions of students in the country.
The child protection is absolutely necessary, but the application of fair justice and protection must also be given to teachers and school personnel. Further, the bill also intends to provide institutional support in the form of standards with the permissible and effective methods of instilling discipline in matters of classroom management together with defined guidelines, legal assistance, and representation.
This development is to be taken with a positive note relative to the application of discipline in line with the responsibility of respecting individual rights. Human rights when given due respect it deserves will beget a blanket protection for all. In establishing the balance, the mandate will provide a fair treatment in the administration of dispute settlement.
To be effective though, one thing must be cleared, the administration of policy must not be subject to any form or any way of abuse. It is with hope that House Bill No. 58 will set the stage in addressing some of the perceived gray areas relevant to the issue of human protection in public schools given the appropriate enlightenment.
By: Ms. Geraldine A. Noval | Teacher II | Bataan National High School | Balanga City, Bataan
