08/07/2026
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via Diovale Arnchy M. Dana
Layout by Rhoni Bryant DJ. Asia
After recent incidents of spreading fake news, harmful pranks, and bomb threats in schools, the Department of Education (DepEd) reminds students, parents, and the public that those who do the following shall face serious violations under DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE), this July 3.
βSchool safety is everyoneβs responsibility. Fake news, dangerous pranks, and bomb threats are never harmlessβthey disrupt learning and put others at risk. Through the ESMLE policy, we are holding learners accountable while ensuring fairness and due process,β said Education Secretary Sonny Angara.
ESMLE has established clear disciplinary measures to strengthen accountability regarding threats while maintaining a safe and motivating environment for learners.
Under this policy, the spread of false information that could cause anxiety and harmful actions inside the classroom, within campus grounds, and among school-outside events is labeled as a first-level or minor offense.
Consequences for first-level offenses include a written reprimand and a corresponding notice from the parent regarding the misdemeanor, while the second offense requires a written reprimand with the parent in attendance through an official call slip.
Furthermore, a third offense will cause a suspension for five school days, but a fitting alternative learning modality will be provided.
On the other hand, ESMLE classifies bomb threats as a third-level offense due to its severe impact among students, school officials, and the community, actions as such disrupts emergency response, cause panic among people, suspend classes, and might also induce criminal liability under the active law.
For the first violation of a third-level offense, punishment will be non-readmission and endorsement to the concerned agency to delegate an intervention; moreover, doing the offense again will cause exclusion, certification to the authorities, and will be given an intervention.
DepEd encourages students to think first before making a post or spreading information online, adding that they should avoid involving with pranks and other deeds that might harm the security of schools.
Additionally, the agency calls for parents, teachers, and school officials to cooperate in integrating responsible behavior to ensure a safe and secure community for learners.
