The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Antique will establish a learner rights and protection desk (LRPD) to promote safe interaction and fun sports for the estimated 2,000 learner-athletes who will compete during the Antique Provincial Athletic Association Meet (APAAM).

DepEd-Antique LRPD focal person Christine Marie Tamon said in an interview Wednesday that they would establish desks at the billeting area and playing venues.

“We will be establishing more visible desks, manned by at least two DepEd personnel or school officials at the billeting area at the Antique National School (ANS) and at the more than 10 playing venues in the province to ensure a safe interaction among the athletes,” she said.

The LRPD is mandated under DepEd Memorandum Order 2024-05-00946, emphasizing DepEd’s zero-tolerance policy for any act of learner abuse, exploitation, violence, discrimination, bullying, and other forms of abuse during the sports event.

The LRPD will also assist athletes needing help in tandem with medical teams the division will deploy during the sports event set on April 2-5.

“We really hope that there will be no bullying or other incidents even if the sports competition becomes tough,” she said.

She appealed to learner-athletes not to get carried by their high emotions and for the parents to help promote sportsmanship among their children. (PNA)