Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
DepEd pushes sports, arts to channel students' energy
The Department of Education is calling for stronger sports, music, and arts programs to help students release pent-up energy. The push comes amid renewed debates over social media and gaming regulation following last month's fatal school shootings in Tacloban City.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA—Education officials are emphasizing the need to expand sports, music, and arts initiatives in schools as a way to help students manage excess energy and stress. Department of Education Undersecretary Malcolm Garma made the call Wednesday, pointing to the importance of structured extracurricular activities in student development and well-being.
Garma's remarks coincide with ongoing discussions about the role of social media and gaming platforms in youth behavior and mental health. The comments emerged in the wake of the June 22 school shootings in Tacloban City that left students and parents seeking answers about prevention and intervention strategies.
Education advocates have long argued that comprehensive recreational and artistic programs serve as vital outlets for adolescent energy and stress relief. By providing diverse opportunities for physical activity and creative expression, schools can support students' holistic development while potentially reducing engagement in harmful online activities.
The Department of Education's stance reflects a broader approach to addressing youth concerns through expanded programming rather than restrictive measures alone, though discussions about appropriate social media usage continue to evolve in policy circles.