DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) has launched an investigation into a reported bullying incident involving Junior High School students after a video allegedly showing a student being physically assaulted inside a school restroom circulated on social media.
The incident reportedly occurred on November 5, 2026, inside a restroom at the university’s Junior High School campus in Matina, Davao City, shortly after an earthquake drill. The circulating video purportedly shows one student repeatedly assaulting another, raising concerns over student safety, school-based violence, and the effectiveness of child protection measures within educational institutions.
Based on accounts accompanying the video, the victim was allegedly punched in the face, stomach, and head, kicked, and struck with objects reportedly including a belt and a mop. There were also allegations that a lighter was used to burn or threaten the victim. The student was further allegedly threatened against reporting the incident or telling anyone about what happened.
These allegations have not been independently established, and the university has yet to publicly disclose the complete circumstances surrounding the incident. The identities of the minors involved have also not been disclosed to protect their privacy.
In an official statement, Ateneo de Davao University said it immediately took action upon receiving the report, prioritizing the safety of the student who was hurt. The university said it informed the parents of all children involved and referred the case to its Junior High School Child Protection Committee for investigation.
The school expressed sympathy for the affected student and family, apologizing for the pain and distress they experienced. It also confirmed that the student has been receiving guidance and counseling support since the incident was reported.
The university said its Child Protection Committee began its investigation upon receiving the complaint and is now finalizing its findings in accordance with the school’s Student Handbook, Republic Act 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, its Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations, and the Department of Education’s (DepEd) child protection policies.
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ADDU also confirmed that it has formally reported the incident to DepEd and continues to coordinate with the education agency.
Meanwhile, DepEd Davao City has initiated its own investigation into the reported assault. The department reportedly directed the school to submit an incident report and elevated the matter to its Learner Rights and Protection Division. Police authorities are also investigating the incident, according to information provided.
The university stressed that learners found responsible will face appropriate disciplinary measures and interventions, subject to due process. This means that accountability will be pursued based on the findings of the investigation and applicable school and government regulations.
Beyond the investigation, ADDU said it is reviewing its existing safeguards and plans to strengthen the capacity of faculty members and school personnel to recognize signs of bullying, report concerns, and respond appropriately to cases involving students.
The university emphasized that no child should feel unsafe or afraid inside a school and that every student deserves protection, respect, and the opportunity to be heard.
It also appealed to the public and media organizations not to circulate names, photographs, videos, or other identifying information involving the minors concerned. The university warned that public exposure could subject the children to further harm, online harassment, and judgment while the investigation remains ongoing.
Parents and students who have concerns may contact the university’s Junior High School help desk through jhs.helpdesk@addu.edu.ph.
The incident has renewed attention on the responsibility of schools to maintain safe learning environments, respond promptly to complaints, and ensure that anti-bullying policies translate into effective protection for students.
Under Republic Act 10627, schools are required to adopt policies addressing bullying and establish mechanisms for reporting, investigating, and responding to incidents. The law underscores that protecting learners requires not only disciplinary action against those found responsible but also appropriate interventions and support for affected students.
As the investigations continue, the findings of the school’s Child Protection Committee and the actions of DepEd and police authorities will be crucial in establishing what happened, determining accountability, and addressing any gaps in the protection of students.