CHR to probe sexual harassment claims vs teachers in Cavite, Camarines Norte
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) will launch its own investigation into the alleged abuse of students by several teachers in Cavite and Camarines Norte.
Six teachers are currently being investigated, according to the Department of Education (DepEd), following allegations of sexual harassment at Bacoor National High School in Cavite.
Meanwhile, a Camarines Norte teacher will go through administrative procedures after being accused of verbally harassing a Grade 5 pupil on the first day of class in a widely shared social media post.
“Both cases, if confirmed to be true, are condemnable incidents that betray the trust children and parents put [in] schools as safe havens for learning,” CHR Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a press statement on Wednesday.
“To ascertain the truth behind these allegations and render aid to those afflicted, the CHR, through its Regional Offices in Region IV-A and V, will be conducting its own independent inquiry into this matter,” she added.
De Guia also praised the DepEd for acknowledging the reports of abuse, conducting an investigation, and safeguarding the victims in both cases.
As schools reopen, she further asked the agency to engage with educational institutions to increase “reporting, prevention, and remedial measures” in tackling abuse, violence, bullying, and other forms of exploitation.
“In all of this, CHR reminds educational institutions, including the government as the prime duty holder of human rights, that we must always uphold the best interest of the child,” De Guia said.
“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.”
