PARENTAL VIOLENCE AFFECTS NEARLY 40% OF FILIPINO CHILDREN, AND SCHOOL ENROLLMENT DROPS UP TO 57%

A new study shows that nearly 40 percent of Filipino children experience parental violence, which significantly reduces their chances of staying in school, with enrollment dropping by 52 to 57 percent by age 14.

The research, conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies and backed by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), used longitudinal data to track how physical and emotional abuse at age 10 affects later school participation.

Gender disparities were evident, with girls facing a 66 percent lower likelihood of enrollment, while boys were 48 percent less likely to remain in school.

Although parental violence did not show a statistically significant impact on academic test scores, experts warn that its effects on learning may appear gradually or through indirect pathways.

EDCOM II emphasized the need for multi-sectoral interventions beyond classrooms, such as parenting programs and anti-violence initiatives, to protect children and improve long-term educational outcomes.

Source: PhilNews24 | January 22, 2026