DepEd partnering with DSWD to combat bullying, boost child development

 Education Secretary Sonny Angara

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) is working with the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD) to implement a program to equip parents with more knowledge in child development, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

In a statement on Saturday, Angara said the program will be part of a bid against bullying and was in response to a call from Senator Sherwin Gatchalian to implement the Parent Effectiveness Service (PES) Act.

“DepEd is working closely with the DSWD to pilot a school-based PES program in high-need areas, particularly those with elevated cases of bullying, teenage pregnancy, and malnutrition,” Angara said.

“Programs are set up to equip parents with the knowledge and tools to guide their children, uphold their rights and foster positive, nurturing relationships both at home and in school,” Angara added.

The Parent Effectiveness Service Act or Republic Act No. 11908 seeks to expand the knowledge and skills of parents and guardians in child development.

READ: Law aiding parents in child development up for implementation 

It lapsed into law in July 2022.

Its implementing rules and regulations were finalized in June 2023.

 Gatchalian made the call for the law’s implementation in a statement last Sunday, after two Grade 8 students were stabbed by their classmates outside their school in Las Piñas City.

READ: Stabbing of 2 Grade 8 students in Las Piñas alarms Sen. Gatchalian

“We fully support Senator Win Gatchalian’s call for the implementation of the Parent Effectiveness Service Act as a key strategy to combat school bullying,” Angara said.

“Empowered parents are our first line of defense in protecting children’s rights and well-being,” he added.