STATEMENT OF AKBAYAN SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS ON THE ATENEO BULLYING VIDEOS

There is absolutely no place, in any school, for bullying.

The violence shown in the video is unbecoming of any student, moreso from my alma mater whose motto is to be men and women for others. I urge the Ateneo to discipline the offender and immediately see to the healing of the victim.

I call upon the guidance office of the Ateneo Jr High School Department to be more vigilant, so that the protection of all students is ensured.

I also urge the public to remain focused and not be distracted by fake news, such as those that tried to distort my stand on this issue, that seek to divert us from the really important issues, which are justice for the victims and reforms in our schools.

The school is a child's second home. And no home should ever tolerate violence within its walls.