By Benilda Recebido

 

SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon, Philippines — The provincial government of Sorsogon has initiated a campaign to prevent violence in schools and promote kindness among students.

The campaign, dubbed “Be Wise, Be Safe, We Save: Kabataang Sorsoganon, Mabuti, Disiplinado at Makatao,” is part of the provincial government’s larger 7K Katrangkiluhan Program aimed at improving community well-being.

The initiative follows national safety standards to make schools safer for children and communities, as outlined in Department of the Interior and Local Government Memorandum Circular 2026-037aimed at enhancing school safety.

Understanding that keeping kids safe requires more than just supervision in class, the provincial government has involved various community partners right in the schools.

During recent events at Abuyog National High School and Filomeno D. Teramas Integrated School in Sorsogon City, city officials worked with government agencies to share useful information with the students.

The Public Attorney’s Office talked to students about the legal issues surrounding bullying and harassment, explaining the serious consequences of such actions.

The Provincial Health Office focused on mental health, helping students deal with the emotional effects of conflicts that can happen at school.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office provided training on being prepared for emergencies and staying safe.

Sorsogon Gov. Edwin Hamor emphasized that “protecting our children is a shared responsibility.”

He said that while parents shape their children’s values at home, the government’s role is to create a safe and respectful environment outside of it.

“Discipline and values are shaped at home, but the government is here to ensure that when our children step outside, they enter an environment that nurtures, respects, and protects them,” Hamor said.

The campaign has already shown positive results, turning students from mere listeners into active participants in creating a better school environment.

“By offering a safe space for discussion, the provincial government has empowered students to influence their own school experiences,” Hamor said.

Grade 11 student Yvette Kaehlah Deocareza expressed appreciation for the government’s involvement, saying, “We feel valued and protected when we see officials taking steps to help us before problems arise.”

Students are now encouraging one another to speak out against abuse and support each other better.

Marian Guemo, president of the Supreme Secondary Learner Government, urged her fellow students to reach out for help when needed, saying, “You don’t have to face bullying alone; talk to your leaders, counselors, and teachers.”

The government’s efforts are helping to connect homes and schools, a fact that teachers and parents alike support.

Teacher Paul Justin Asanon noted that anxiety from bullying can harm student learning and attendance, making the initiative a much-needed help for educators.

Parent Alexa Carmel Fajardo also supported the campaign, saying it reinforces key values like respect that families aim to teach.

Looking ahead, the provincial government plans to expand the “Be Wise, Be Safe, We Save” campaign to a total of 133 high schools throughout Sorsogon. (Mavic Aringo contributed to this report, PIA Bicol/Sorsogon)