Manila, Feb. 27 -- Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday raised alarm over the increasing number of violent altercations involving minors, underscoring the urgent need for stronger security, anti-bullying initiatives, and mental health programs in educational institutions.

Gatchalian cited in a news release a stabbing incident involving two students, Grade 7 and Grade 10 learners, who were stabbed in an altercation outside Rizal High School in Pasig City.

He also mentioned a brawl in Iloilo City involving students aged 13 to 17 who were left injured from stab wounds and two female elementary school students in Marikina who were stabbed in the face inside their school premises.

As the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Educat...