Cyberbullying – a type of harassment with the use of new technology, taking place in social networking applications, gaming platforms, and messaging platforms, as defined by United Nations Children’s Fund. The earliest case of cyberbullying happened in 2007, then laws protecting the victims emerged side-by-side. Yet, the rate of silent victims still rises every year. No generation is exempted. No matter what age, gender, status, or religion, one can be vulnerable.
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness, Interact Club of FEU Roosevelt Rodriguez conducted a webinar titled “Know to Say No: A Webinar about Cyberbullying,” held on October 31, 2020 via Zoom and Facebook Live. Led by Transforming President Miss Jacky-Lyn C. Del Rosario, they brought eloquent speakers to tackle key points in cyberbullying.
First, Mrs. Pamela Ann M. Baluyo, Transforming President of Rotary Club of Rodriguez, the official sponsoring institution of IAC of FEU Roosevelt Rodriguez, introduced “Cyberbullying,” exposing the experience of being cyberbullied and the ways to stop the stigma. Notably, she pointed out to parents the different approaches to their bullied child—the second topic, which Atty. Amorsito B. Pagulayan facilitated, significantly discussed the laws related to cyberbullying. He detailed existing laws that protect bullied victims.
Still, bullying is evident. People may not see it literally, but it happens. The anxiety, fear, and uneasiness it brings are agonizing. Bullied victims do not dare to speak, thus, creating a darker world in their minds. Indeed, be mindful of the people around you.
To all who experienced cyberbullying – it’s okay to say NO.
