PASIG CITY, April 20, 2018 – Sexual predators and violators of children’s rights have no place in the Department of Education (DepEd), much less in schools, learning environments, and events where children are supposed to feel safe and nurtured.

Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones issued this warning following reports on the arrest of a DepEd personnel from Cebu City, who was accused by a student athlete of making sexual advances towards him. The education employee was a spectator at the 2018 Palarong Pambansaand not part of any regional delegation.

The Department immediately investigated the incident in aid of administrative cases that may be filed. DepEd shall exercise everything in its power to ensure that the appalling action of the erring personnel and similar violators shall be meted with justice.

“Behaviors that endanger the physical and mental well-being of our learners are not tolerated in the Department,” the DepEd chief emphasized.

Teachers, school administrators, and non-teaching personnel are the foremost protectors of learners from all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, violence, and discrimination. They are expected to perform functions and conduct themselves, in and outside the classroom, with this responsibility in mind.

Pursuant to its commitment in implementing DepEd Order No. 40, series 2012 (DepEd Child Protection Policy) and Republic Act No. 7620 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act), the Department enjoins parents, teachers, and communities in ensuring that all learners are always protected and their best interest are constantly upheld.