Two teachers indicted for “bullying” students

CEBU, Philippines - Two public school teachers in Cebu City were charged with child abuse for allegedly bullying their students.

The Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office held twin sisters Cesaria Melgar and Victoria Melgar, both teachers of Camp Lapu-Lapu Elementary School, for trial after finding probable cause for violation of Republic Act 7610 or child abuse.

Prosecutor Jill Ann Gealon recommended P80,000 bail for each teacher’s temporary liberty.

Fourteen Grade VI pupils of Camp Lapu-Lapu Elementary School have lodged a complaint against the two teachers for allegedly uttering and shouting bullying words against them in front of other students.

The complainants said they were at the school ground on July 12, 2013 for their daily flag ceremony and exercise routine when Cesaria shouted at them and allegedly shoved them away to go to the back row while calling them ugly faces.

“Embarrassed and humiliated, the complainants cried inside their classroom,” the complaint reads.

The minor students added that later that day, the Melgars uttered, “Naa na sab ning mga Science class, nagpasikat sa ilang costume. Mga bogo ra ba.”

The teachers denied the allegations filed against them.

Cesaria denied calling the students “ugly faces” and shoving them away, saying she requested them instead to step back to let the regular Grade VI pupils present their dance.

She said it was one of the complainants, a former member of the school band, who uttered foul words towards them.

Despite their defense, Gealon found probable cause to elevate the case to the court, prompting the accused to file a motion for reconsideration.

“Contrary to the claim, respondents’ evidence was given consideration when the office resolved the complaint. But far from refuting the charge, respondents’ assertion even strengthens the accusation. As it is, the claim that respondents were denied due process is without any basis,” the resolution reads.

Prosecutor Ernesto Narido, Jr. denied the motion filed by the teachers, who sought for the reversal of Gealon’s ruling.

“Clearly, the allegations in the complaint sufficiently support the charge. As a rule, positive and categorical assertion prevails over denial. In finding probable cause for the charge the office accords greater weight to the allegations in the complaint,” the resolution reads.  (FREEMAN)