MANILA – Sen. Bam Aquino is seeking the immediate passage of his proposed School Safety Act following a series of violent incidents and the discovery of deadly weapons in the possession of students in schools across the country.

Aquino, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, said the panel is scheduled to deliberate on the proposed measure on July 9.

Originally crafted to strengthen anti-bullying measures in schools, the bill has been expanded to cover other forms of violence, improve school security, and address emerging threats involving students.

“Sa harap ng mga nangyayaring insidente ng karahasan at pagdiskubre ng mga patalim at baril sa bag ng ilang mga estudyante, lalo’t higit na kailangan nating madaliin ang pagsasabatas ng School Safety Act,” Aquino said.

“Umaasa tayong makatutulong ang panukalang ito para maresolba ang mga problemang nararanasan sa ating mga paaralan, gaya ng bullying at iba pang uri ng karahasan na naglalagay sa panganib sa ating mga estudyante at mga guro,” he added.

According to Aquino, the expanded proposal contains provisions aimed at enhancing school security, strengthening emergency preparedness and response, and promoting the overall safety and well-being of students and school personnel.

Among the measures he proposed are the installation of additional closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, metal detectors, and other security equipment, the deployment of more barangay tanods and security personnel, and the conduct of regular consultations to discuss school safety concerns and preventive measures.

“Susi rin dito ang pagtulong ng mga komunidad para mapalakas ang kaligtasan sa ating mga paaralan,” Aquino stressed.

The proposed legislation also focuses on prevention and early intervention by reinforcing anti-bullying and child protection policies, expanding access to mental health services and psychosocial support, and requiring informed parental consent for school-sanctioned activities such as educational field trips.

It also seeks to establish standardized school safety training programs for teachers, administrators, and other school personnel, while setting clear response and recovery protocols.

The July 9 committee hearing will likewise discuss other proposed measures intended to improve student safety and welfare, including bills seeking to expand the Anti-Bullying Act, promote digital literacy and internet safety, regulate the use of mobile devices in schools, and protect the welfare of student-athletes.