Camille Villar Warns Online Influence Can Fuel School Violence & Bullying
CAMILLE VILLAR – As children spend more time online, Senator Camille Villar is calling for stronger protections to keep students safe from harmful digital influences and school violence.
Senator Camille Villar expressed confidence that her proposed Safe Online Spaces Act could play a significant role in preventing violence and bullying in schools across the Philippines by addressing the growing influence of digital platforms on young people.
Villar emphasized that schools should remain safe environments where students can learn without fear. However, she noted that the challenges faced by children do not end when they leave the school grounds. With students increasingly using smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and other digital spaces, harmful interactions can continue online and potentially affect their behavior and well-being offline.
“Ang paaralan ay dapat manatiling lugar ng pagkatuto, hindi lugar ng takot. Pero kailangan din nating kilalanin na ang mga impluwensyang nakakaapekto sa ating mga anak ay hindi na natatapos sa gate ng paaralan – sumusunod ito sa kanilang cellphone at sa mga digital space na araw-araw nilang ginagalawan,” said Villar.
The senator explained that Senate Bill No. 1729, which she filed, seeks to promote responsible use of social media, gaming services, and other digital platforms. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen online safeguards and encourage a safer digital environment for children and students.
Villar also stressed that online protection should be complemented by stronger safety measures within schools. She called for improved security and emergency preparedness to help schools respond more effectively to possible threats and incidents involving students.
In addition, the senator highlighted the importance of providing young people with easier access to mental health and guidance services. She said timely intervention is also necessary when bullying or violent behavior is detected, allowing authorities, teachers, parents, and school personnel to respond before situations escalate.
The proposed measure reflects growing concerns over how online interactions can influence students’ experiences and relationships in school. By encouraging responsible digital behavior while strengthening support systems, Villar hopes to create safer spaces for children both online and offline.
“Bilang isang ina at mambabatas, patuloy akong magsusulong ng mga hakbang upang protektahan ang ating mga anak saan man sila naroroon—offline man o online,” Villar said.
Villar’s proposal underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to student safety, recognizing that protecting children requires action not only inside classrooms but also in the digital spaces where they increasingly spend their time.
READ ALSO: DepEd Has Only 1,000 Guidance Counselors for More Than 45,000 Schools
