Bullying as a form of childhood aggression is as old as the hills. However, with technology (the Net, social media, and smartphones), it has birthed a new, 24/7, fiercer version:
Cyberbullying. Its reach and anonymity have increased in alarming numbers.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (US), every five (19.2%) students report being bullied.
If you think that number is huge, let’s look at the Philippines’. Over 40% of learners aged 13-17 report being bullied in a year. An OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) research found that twice as many students in the Philippines were bullied compared to the global average.
In its 2022 report, 43% of girls and 53% of boys experienced bullying. Schools in Manila saw a 10% increase in bullying during the 2024/2025 academic year.
The encouraging news is that the government (PNP, DSWD. DILG) and NGOs (Save the Children Philippines) have implemented programs in addressing the problem. Our very own Barangay has been conducting lectures among educators and parents on how to spot and stop bullies.
One of the main reasons, as found in research, why kids bully is difficult home life (dysfunctional family environments, parental neglect, or exposure to conflict at home.)
To believers in Biblical principles, God’s Words serve as core values in building a happy home—parents modeling Christ-like character for the children.
That’s why in the “Happy Home” series, “Bully versus Bully” (published by Hiyas of OMFLit and illustrated by Leo Kempis Ang), a happy home life is demonstrated to help prevent bullying.
Told in simple and lighthearted language, the book is about a happy and supportive home environment. By grace, it will help lower the risk of children becoming involved in bullying as perpetrators.
“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” Proverbs 24:3-4
