Lawmakers Call for Deeper Examination of Viral Teacher Video
Amidst the controversy sparked by a viral TikTok video showing a teacher reprimanding students, House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin has urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to take a broader view of the incident.
Garin emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by teachers, especially in public schools, which may have contributed to the teacher’s actions.
Recognizing the power of social media in spreading such incidents, the lawmaker encouraged the public to consider the event in a wider context.
She also expressed concern for the welfare of public school teachers and the potential lack of avenues for them to express their needs, problems, and understanding of their students.
According to Garin, it is crucial to have a command or support system in the education sector to allow teachers to voice their concerns and receive assistance.
She also called for a feedback mechanism between teachers and their superiors, enabling them to freely discuss their issues and obtain support to address them.
Garin speculated that the teacher in question might have been harboring resentment but felt unable to approach the principal, regional director, or even the DepEd Central Office, leading to the expression of frustration on social media.
She added that a thorough investigation of the incident is necessary, as it may not be an isolated case but a symptom of a larger issue.
House Deputy Majority Leader and PBA Party-list Rep. Margarita Ignacia “Atty. Migs” Nograles, and Taguig 2nd District Rep. Amparo Maria Zamora also shared their perspectives on the viral video.
Nograles highlighted the importance of responsible social media use to disseminate information and spread positivity.
Meanwhile, Zamora expressed concern over the harsh words used by the teacher, emphasizing the importance of restraint and proper conduct.