As schools across Misamis Occidental open their gates for the new academic year, the Department of Education (DepEd) in the province has launched a strong campaign urging students to reject bullying in all forms. The initiative, which kicked off in June 2026, targets both elementary and high school students across the region, including Ozamiz City.
Through the “Magmalasakit sa Kapwa, Iwas Bullying” campaign, DepEd MisOcc has been conducting orientation sessions, distributing information materials, and organizing student-led discussions aimed at promoting a safe and inclusive learning environment. Teachers and guidance counselors have been trained to identify early signs of bullying and to intervene effectively before situations escalate.
“We want every child in our province to feel safe and respected in school,” said a DepEd MisOcc spokesperson. “Bullying has no place in our classrooms. It affects not just the victim’s academic performance but also their mental health and overall well-being.”
The campaign has already gained traction in several schools in Ozamiz City, where student organizations have taken the lead in promoting anti-bullying messages through peer education programs, poster-making contests, and classroom declarations. Some schools have also established anonymous reporting channels where students can safely report incidents without fear of retaliation.
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to play an active role by maintaining open lines of communication with their children. DepEd MisOcc has distributed guides for parents on how to recognize signs of bullying and how to respond appropriately. The department emphasizes that addressing bullying requires a whole-community approach where families, schools, and local government units work together.
The initiative aligns with the national DepEd’s Child Protection Policy and supports the broader goal of creating a positive school culture nationwide. As the school year progresses, DepEd MisOcc plans to sustain the campaign through regular monitoring, recognition of schools with exemplary anti-bullying programs, and integration of character education into the regular curriculum.