The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) believes that education should be the primary focus in addressing the rising incidents of violence in schools.
In an interview, TDC Secretary General Jim Lester Beleno said the group understands the intention behind proposals to lower the age of criminal liability.
However, Beleno maintained that strengthening education is the more effective way to address the root causes of the problem.
According to him, even if the age of criminal liability is lowered, violence will continue to occur if children are raised in a violent environment and society.
Beleno also expressed hope that the recent incidents of violence in schools would serve as a wake-up call for the Department of Education (DepEd).
He urged the agency to address the shortage of security personnel and guidance counselors, noting that these professionals can play a crucial role in preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.
