Teacher in hot water for hitting student in viral video
A public high school teacher in Cebu City is facing possible sanctions from the Department of Education (DepEd) 7 after a video of him physically assaulting a junior high school student went viral on social media.
The video, which was originally posted by the student’s mother on her Facebook account, showed the teacher, identified as Ernesto Cabase of Don Sergio Memorial National High School, slapping and kicking the student, who is 13 years old and in Grade 8.
The mother said she uploaded the video to expose the teacher’s abusive behavior and to seek justice for her son. She later deleted the video, but not before it was widely shared and viewed by millions of netizens.
DepEd 7 Director Salustiano Jimenez said they are conducting a thorough investigation on the incident, which occurred on February 16. He said they will ensure that the due process is followed and that the outcome will be fair and just for both parties.
He also stressed that corporal punishment is prohibited in schools and that teachers should practice positive discipline instead.
According to Jimenez, the initial report indicated that the teacher was angered by the student’s frequent absences and his multiple ear piercings, which he deemed as a sign of disrespect and rebellion.
The student, whose name is being withheld reportedly talked back and resisted the teacher’s attempt to discipline him, which triggered the teacher’s violent reaction.
Jimenez said the teacher, the student, and the parent have already met at the school’s principal office to settle the matter. However, the mother said in a radio interview that she is still planning to file a formal complaint against the teacher.
The teacher’s son, meanwhile, took to Facebook to apologize to the student and the parent on behalf of his father. He said his father regretted his actions and was deeply sorry for what he did. He also asked for understanding and compassion from the public and urged parents to monitor their children’s behavior and performance in school.
Against the Cane: The Harms of Corporal Punishment
- Ineffective: Studies show corporal punishment doesn't deter misbehavior, instead breeding resentment and fear.
- Harmful: It can inflict physical and emotional trauma, impacting self-esteem and mental health.
- Unequal Application: Biases can lead to disproportionate use on marginalized groups, perpetuating inequalities.
- Breaches Rights: The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child prohibits all corporal punishment.
The Case for Positive Discipline:
- Focus on Solutions: Positive reinforcement, clear expectations, and open communication foster trust and cooperation.
- Teachable Moments: Mistakes become opportunities for learning and developing self-regulation.
- Respectful Environment: Positive discipline promotes dignity and builds healthy relationships.
The Legal Landscape in the Philippines:
- Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act): Prohibits all forms of child abuse, including corporal punishment.
- Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 49, s. 2012: Emphasizes positive and non-violent discipline in schools.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action:
- Support DepEd's investigation: Ensure a fair and just outcome for all parties involved.
- Advocate for positive discipline: Encourage schools to implement effective, non-violent strategies.
- Report abuse: If you witness corporal punishment, report it to DepEd or relevant authorities.
Remember: Corporal punishment has no place in a nurturing and respectful learning environment. By understanding the harms and embracing positive alternatives, we can create schools where all students feel safe, supported, and empowered to learn and thrive.