Child protection in schools
remains a global and national priority, yet the implementation of policy on the
ground continues to face significant challenges. A recent study published in
the Journal of Educational Analytics (JEDA) in May 2026 by Maverick V.
Catahan, Edward C. Jimenez, Ph.D., and Sonny N. De Guzman explores the
approaches and hurdles faced by educators in implementing the Child Protection
Policy (CPP). This research is vital for bridging the gap between formal regulations
and classroom realities to create a truly safe learning environment for
students.
Context of the
Problem
Although the government has
established strict mandates, such as DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012 in the
Philippines, challenges in enforcing child protection policies persist. Issues
such as bullying, physical abuse, and online exploitation remain prevalent.
Furthermore, inconsistent protocols, insufficient stakeholder awareness, and
limited resources often hinder optimal policy implementation in schools, which
ultimately places an emotional and mental burden on teachers.
Methodology
The study employed a
qualitative research design using Hermeneutic Phenomenology to capture the
lived experiences of educators. The researchers conducted semi-structured
interviews with 15 public secondary school teachers in Central Luzon,
Philippines, selected through purposive sampling. The interviews focused on
teachers' personal experiences in handling child protection issues and the
specific challenges they encountered, which were then analyzed to identify
patterns and gaps in current protection practices.
Key Findings:
Approaches and Challenges
Based on the analysis,
the study identified several core approaches used by teachers and the primary
challenges they face:
·
Teacher Approaches:
- o Teachers emphasize the essence of the CPP as a moral and legal guide within the educational setting.
- o They implement systematic case-handling procedures, ranging from assessment and reporting to collaboration with relevant school committees.
- o Educators work to promote a culture of safety and well-being through effective policy dissemination and awareness campaigns.
·
Implementation Challenges:
- o A significant barrier is the lack of awareness and specialized training for educators regarding policy implementation.
- o Parental and community engagement remains difficult, particularly when there is resistance or a lack of understanding regarding the policy.
- o Participants noted issues regarding the consistency of communication and the potential misuse of the policy by stakeholders who may not fully grasp their rights and responsibilities.
Implications and
Proposed Policy Framework
The study underscores that
child protection is not merely an administrative obligation but a collective
responsibility requiring synergy between teachers, parents, and the community.
The researchers proposed a new policy framework for schools to assist teachers
in balancing their dual roles as educators and protectors. Edward C. Jimenez,
Ph.D., and his colleagues assert that schools must act as "safe
spaces" free from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, allowing
learners to thrive in a nurturing environment.
Author Profiles:
- Maverick V. Catahan: Department of Education (Philippines).
- Edward C. Jimenez, Ph.D.: Angeles University Foundation, expert in education
management and human resource development.
- Sonny N. De Guzman: Mabalacat City College.
Source:
Catahan, M. V., Jimenez, E. C., & De Guzman, S. N. (2026). Exploring the Approaches and Challenges of Implementation of Child Protection Policy Schools. Journal of Educational Analytics (JEDA), 5(2), 411-426.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/jeda.v5i2.3
URL: https://journaljeda.my.id/index.php/jeda
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