A Safer Future for Manila’s Schools: Mayor Isko Moreno

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso’s  proposal to expel students who bring weapons to school, participate in riots, or are found guilty of bullying has sparked an important conversation about discipline, accountability, and the future of education. While some may view the proposed ordinance as too strict, it reflects a growing concern over the need to restore order and safety in schools.

Education is more than academic learning; it is also about shaping responsible and respectful citizens. Schools should be places where students feel safe, teachers are respected, and parents are confident that their children can learn without fear. Acts of violence, bullying, and disorder threaten that environment and should never be tolerated, this according to Mayor Domagoso during the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum held at the Luneta Park Hotel.

Beyond education, the city government’s commitment to improving housing, healthcare, livelihood, and public spaces reflects a broader vision for a more livable Manila. Safe schools are part of that vision, but they must be complemented by strong communities that nurture responsible young people.

Ultimately, creating secure learning environments requires cooperation among students, parents, teachers, and government. Discipline, when paired with compassion and fairness, can help build schools where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Mayor Moreno’s proposal recognizes that rights come with responsibilities. Every student has the right to quality education, but that right should not come at the expense of the safety and well-being of others. Students who commit serious offenses must face appropriate consequences, provided that due process is strictly observed. Fair investigations and the opportunity to defend oneself are essential to ensuring justice.

Equally significant is the mayor’s call to empower teachers. Educators are often the first to witness disciplinary issues, yet many feel constrained by policies that limit their authority. Giving teachers the confidence and legal support to enforce classroom discipline can help prevent minor incidents from escalating into serious problems.

However, expulsion should not be the only solution. Schools must also invest in counseling, conflict resolution, mental health services, and values formation. Many students who engage in disruptive behavior may be dealing with personal, family, or social challenges that require intervention rather than punishment alone. Discipline and rehabilitation should work together to create lasting change.