Tell it to SunStar: Unnecessary

CORPORAL punishment is not allowed in our schools. Thus, we do not need a law to prohibit the already prohibited.

Our teachers are already burdened by so many regulations that are used or misused against us. The anti-child abuse law is still enforceable; this is an example of a law that has a very good intention. We also have the Department of Education (DepEd) Child Protection Policy that imposes strict rules on protection of children in a school setting. We recognize and respect these regulations but unfortunately, these are also being used to harass, threaten and intimidate the helpless teachers or extort money from them.

While we appreciate the principles of positive discipline and in fact cooperate with the DepEd and the private sector for its promotion, we believe that creating another law is too much and may further put our teachers in a disadvantaged position. The principles and definitions, even the supposed violations in the proposal, are all covered and already well-written in the pertinent regulations.

We denounce the ancient ways of disciplining children, particularly physical, verbal and psychological punishment in the teaching-learning process. We regard these methods as outdated and ineffective, considering the advances in child psychology and universal principle of children’s rights, which the teachers are expected to abide. But we would also like to remind our legislators to be cautious and take into consideration all the factors in a school situation.

In fact, given the present complicated condition, teachers who are often misunderstood and sensationalized for imposing “discipline” also need the protection of the law. We must, at all times, be sure that the rights and welfare of teachers are protected in the same weight as we protect the children.

A genuine and sincere program on positive discipline that involves parents, community leaders, local government and school personnel is essential. To enact another law is unnecessary.--Teachers’ Dignity Coalition

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