VARGAS Calls for Stricter Implementation, Review and Investigation of QC Anti-Bullying Measures

Trigger Warning:Bullying++

In recent reports, a first year high school student became a victim of bullying in Quezon City. He had seizures, apparently got bullied and hurt by his classmates, called names as a SPED (special education) student which caused his untimely demise last February (where his Mom is still asking for justice to this day, despite catching it all on CCTV). 

Former Congressman and now Quezon City Councilor Alfred Vargas took his time at a privilege speech and ask for a review of the existing Quezon City Anti Bullying Ordinance to address the number of incidents of this nature. It has increased in recent years and mostly have been caused by bullying, physical harm, picking on those who are differently abled. He explains how it is important to see who should be accountable, while being given due process and seek the truth. 

As of now, the QC Council has voted unanimously for an investigation on the incident. Vargas reiterates the importance of stopping this from happening again. He says "We cannot just make "a person thinking like a child" a reason for all of these. This is serious, and is a matter of life and death. I am calling for everyone's help on this matter and hope justice be served."

He adds "Together with our Mayor Joy Belmonte and Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, we urge everyone in the city council to start discussions on the Anti Bullying Ordinance and the measures we have protecting these kids. I think it is high time we put in stronger measures, like reporting, the duties of school administrators and the parents. Let's not be silent on this matter!"

I agree with him that there should not be anyone who would go through these things in 2026. He also said no parent should experience this sadness, sorrow or grief in their lifetime. The cycle of abuse should stop!

PENSHOPPE Launches #iamdifferent Campaign

Have you ever been bullied? I have, a lot of times actually. I am glad to have joined several campaigns that have tackled this difficult problem that people have been through all these years. It makes me realize that it's a also a cycle, admittedly I have also bullied some of my friends, and I know it's not right. As much as I can, I try not to do that anymore because it's wrong on so many levels. I'm glad Penshoppe is doing it too.

You see my crazy hair? The weird clothes I wear? The shoes that I use? I love them all, but I'm sure a significant part of society won't consider that normal, up to their standards, but if you think about it I am the personification of this particular campaign because #iamdifferent. Being different doesn't mean people have the right to abuse you, use you, or tell you bad things because it's not right. That difference should be celebrated, because it's something good, it's individuality, it's taking a gamble with non conformity. It's cool, it's fashion forward, and no one should put you down because of it.

Together with the iconic men and women that are endorsing Penshoppe like Lucky Blue Smith, Sandara Park, Cameron Dallas, Kaia Gerber, Bella Hadid, Mario Maurer, and local stars Tanner Mata and Hashtag Ronnie Alonte, this night was something they wanted to happen because they were excited about this cause according to Jeff Bascon, Penshoppe's Fashion Director. It's very current, it's still happening and they will put a stop to it by funding a grassroots program module that would teach kids acceptance, against bullying via the organization Teach For The Philippines. 

All you have to do now is support the movement by purchasing limited edition shirts included in the #iamdifferent collection. Each shirt has a unique serial number and is supported by models, artists, individuals from around the world who believe in the cause. I'd like to take this bit to thank PENSHOPPE for including me in this campaign. I would really love bullying to end, and I know this is just the start. 

If you want to support the cause, please visit your nearest Penshoppe branch and purchase these lovely shirts made of really good material, with specially hand crafted tags just for the cause. Congratulations Penshoppe!