Koronadal city: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday called for government action to address the lingering culture of violence among students, following a viral video showing learners in Koronadal City attacking their schoolmates. Gatchalian emphasized the urgent need for stronger community and institutional efforts to prevent similar incidents, including the full implementation of existing education laws and the involvement of families and local officials.

According to Philippines News Agency, the senator expressed his deep alarm over the video, which vividly portrayed the physical aggression among students. He highlighted the persistence of a violent culture in educational settings and posed a critical question about the timing of intervention: 'I am deeply alarmed by the viral video of some learners physically attacking two schoolmates in Koronadal City. It is clear that the culture of violence still exists among our students. If we don't stop it now, then when?'

Gatchalian reiterated his call for schools, parents, and local government units to collaborate in strengthening values education. He pointed to the importance of implementing the Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and Values Education Act as pivotal steps in addressing these issues. Additionally, the senator underscored the need to prioritize the implementation of the Basic Education and Mental Health Well-Being Promotion Act, which is designed to support the emotional and psychological needs of students.