Following a recent incident at a private educational institution in Quezon City, the City Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of students. Mayor Joy Belmonte stressed that while private schools are primarily under the jurisdiction of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd), the city will take a proactive role in advocating for student safety and well-being.
To address the matter, the Quezon City Council, led by Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, will conduct an investigation in aid of legislation to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Majority Floor Leader Dorothy “Doray” Delarmente and Councilor Aly Medalla, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, will spearhead the initiative to identify policy gaps and propose solutions.
“The safety of students is a priority that transcends jurisdictions. This investigation underscores our commitment to ensure such incidents are thoroughly examined and necessary measures are implemented to prevent their recurrence,” said Mayor Belmonte.
The investigation will focus on key areas, including:
- Event organization and oversight
- Student safety and security protocols
- Supervision during activities
- Policies and fees on mandatory participation
- Stakeholder feedback and engagement
- Coordination with local government units (LGUs) and relevant authorities
- Compliance with national regulations
- Support systems for affected students and families
Councilor Aly Medalla emphasized the broader purpose of the initiative: “This is not just about addressing one incident; it’s about ensuring that every institution in Quezon City upholds the highest standards of safety and student welfare.”
Majority Floor Leader Doray Delarmente added, “The Council is committed to using the findings of this investigation to craft legislative measures that address existing gaps. We will also work with CHED and DepEd to ensure a unified approach to student safety.”
The Quezon City Government assured the public of full transparency throughout the process. Findings from the investigation will guide local policies and serve as recommendations for national agencies to enhance their oversight mechanisms.