The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a new order to teachers to promote professionalism — but because of this, it is forbidden to talk to students outside of school or even follow them on social media.
This is the content of DepEd Order 49, which the department signed for teachers this Wednesday.
“Refrain from engaging in any activity or any relationship that may impair one’s ability in making objective decisions in the performance of his/her job functions,” said the order.
“Avoid relationships, interactions including following social media with learners outside of the school setting, except if they are relatives.”
Schools have long banned questionable relationships between teachers and students, especially if they lead to romantic or sexual contact.
Despite this, there is no prior law that says a teacher is prohibited from befriending, interacting, or communicating outside of the classroom. It is also not against the law.
Vice President Sara Duterte, who is also DepEd secretary, first defended their request for the controversial P150 million confidential funds, especially since many of the students are suffering from grooming and sexual abuse.
DepEd to limit teacher-student relationships outside class
It was only this year that the alleged sexual abuses that happened at the Philippine High School for the Arts in Laguna, which is run by the government, became news.
Meanwhile, the ACT Teachers party list criticized DO 49, especially because its effects include “silencing” teachers, which is said to interfere with their right to express their thoughts and organize.
Also, under the said order, the following is written,”[DepEd employees and officials] shall not unduly post online attacks against fellow DepEd employees and must utilize legal and human resource mediation procedures; and… Shall not disparage DepEd and must always be mindful of the reputation and honor of the organization.
“Why does the [DepEd] feel the need to create such an order that gags and threatens teachers and education support personnel which treats them as mere creatures only of the school and dehumanizes them preventing them to exercise their right to free speech, expression, to organize and be able to voice out their grievances?” said ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro.
The lawmaker added they already know and follow the codes of ethics under Republic Act 6713 or Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, as well as R.A. 7836 or Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994.
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