UNDER PROBE | DepEd investigating alleged teacher over viral video of outburst

March 18, 2024 , 10:51 AM

(March 18, 2024) – The Department of Education (DepEd) has started its investigation into an alleged teacher who went viral on social media last week over a live video of her outburst presumably directed at her students.

Last Saturday, DepEd deputy spokesperson and assistant secretary Francis Bringas said they are “verifying the report from the field” after the live video posted by “Serendipitylover” on TikTok quickly spread on social media.

It showed a woman in a teacher’s uniform scolding students, who were not seen on camera, for allegedly being rude. It elicited mixed reactions, as some netizens found the act abusive while others called for more understanding because of a possibly stressful situation she was going through.

As of writing, the TikTok account where the live video was posted is in private mode. But a copy of the video can still be accessed through other social media platforms after some netizens recorded it.

Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal, a psychiatrist, told News5 that there could be a variety of reasons behind the outburst. She, however, pointed out that there are alternative ways to release emotions more appropriately.

She advised people under similar circumstances that it might be ideal to temporarily “step away from the situation” that may be causing one’s stress.

Meanwhile, the Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC) acknowledged that the supposed teacher may have erred “if indeed the woman is a teacher capturing a portion of her actual class in video” but it urged others not to be too quick to judge.

TDC national chairperson Benjo Basas expressed hope that the DepEd will carry out a fair investigation before imposing penalties.

“We want to remind everyone that there is a bigger problem at hand with this viral video. And that is the matter of discipline in schools and its place in the overall state of our education, especially in public schools,” said the TDC in a statement.

The DepEd follows a Child Protection Policy through Department Order No. 40, s. 2012. It also observes the Anti-Child Abuse Act and other laws to ensure that students are safe in schools.

While acknowledging these policies, TDC also urged the DepEd to protect teachers “from those who would take advantage of these policies to harm us and make us their victims.” It also highlighted the need for substantial educational reforms to address the needs of teachers and students.

The DepEd is headed by Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio.

TDC also called on the government to “conduct massive and substantial training on the positive discipline approach” and to “review the DepEd Child Protection Policy and craft the protection of our teachers as well,” among other recommendations.

“We believe that implementing these proposals will not only benefit teachers and provide them with protection, but also ensure that our students receive proper guidance and protection as well,” added TDC.

(PM | With reports from EF Del Mundo, News5)

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