by Mark Angelo R. Damo

There is no doubt that every learner deserves a safe and respectful environment, especially during national events like the Palarong Pambansa, which celebrates discipline, excellence, and the spirit of youth. However, in our rightful pursuit of justice and child protection, we must be careful not to fall into sweeping generalizations that risk tarnishing an entire profession based on the alleged misconduct of a few.

Amid the vibrant energy of the Palarong Pambansa 2025 hosted in Ilocos Norte, discussions have emerged online regarding concerns about the sharing of content involving student-athletes. While the public’s vigilance over learner protection is valid and welcome, the tone of some commentaries has veered toward generalizations that could unfairly cast a shadow over the wider teaching community.

If incidents of misconduct did occur, they are indefensible and must be addressed with full accountability. But let us be clear: these isolated actions, if proven true, are betrayals of the profession and not representations of it.

To suggest that the Palarong Pambansa has shifted from celebrating youth to shaming them is not only an overstatement but also an unfair insult to the thousands of educators who have poured time, effort, and heart into making this event safe, meaningful, and inspiring. These are the same teachers who work long hours, many without additional compensation, to train, accompany, and support young athletes throughout their journey.

In light of these concerns, the Schools Division Superintendent of Ilocos Norte, Atty. Donato D. Balderas Jr., issued Advisory No. 077 on May 26, 2025, reminding all DepEd personnel to observe responsible social media conduct. The advisory reiterates DepEd’s standing policies on digital ethics and emphasizes the need for consent before posting images of learners, in line with the Cybercrime Prevention Act and the Data Privacy Act of 2012. It reflects DepEd’s continuing commitment to upholding both student safety and professional standards.

This move is a timely and necessary reinforcement of professional conduct, especially in an era where a single post can spark widespread judgment and irreversible consequences. The issuance of the advisory proves that DepEd is neither deaf to concerns nor tolerant of any behavior that undermines student dignity.

It is dangerous and irresponsible to cast a shadow over the entire teaching community on the basis of allegations. Teachers are not immune to scrutiny, and accountability must be pursued when misconduct is confirmed. But justice requires process. The call for immediate termination, license revocation, and criminal charges (without due investigation) does not reflect a system governed by fairness. It reflects a rush to judgment that could destroy careers, reputations, and lives.

Let us not forget that the teaching profession, especially in regions like the Ilocos Region, is made up of individuals who have dedicated their lives to education, character formation, and youth development. They are not perfect, but they are far from the predatory figures implied in some narratives. The majority stand as protectors, not threats.

To our young voices, your courage to speak is necessary. Your willingness to defend the rights of your fellow youth is admirable. But in speaking up, speak wisely. Advocate for truth, not hysteria. Uphold accountability, not condemnation without evidence. A powerful voice is one that builds, not one that burns bridges.

DepEd and the broader community must investigate any credible report of misconduct. If wrongdoing is found, let consequences follow. But let us also stand by the countless educators who continue to serve with integrity, with no other motive but to uplift and protect the students under their care.

In defending the dignity of the learners, we must also defend the dignity of those who have made it their life’s work to educate them. This is how we honor both justice and truth. This is how we restore the true essence of the Palarong Pambansa: not a battlefield of blame, but a celebration of young athletes who are guided by mentors who deserve not only scrutiny but respect.