The Philippines is increasing its focus on student mental health, particularly in the wake of violent incidents involving minors. Government agencies are working to strengthen counseling services in schools.
A major challenge is the shortage of guidance counselors, with only 4,069 serving 27.4 million elementary and high school students as of 2022. This translates to a ratio of about one counselor for every 6,700 students.
The Department of Education plans to hire more guidance counselors to address violence on school campuses. The Civil Service Commission has approved qualification standards for new school counselor positions.
These standards, outlined in CSC Resolution No. 2600920, cover education, experience, training, and eligibility requirements for various school counselor positions. CSC Chairperson Marilyn Yap stated that the standards aim to ensure qualified professionals are assigned to schools to promote students’ mental health and well-being.
Applicants for certain positions, such as Schools Division Counselor and School Counselor I to IV, must hold a master’s degree in guidance and counseling or psychology, along with a valid license. Meanwhile, applicants for School Counselor Associate I to V must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline and have Career Service Professional Eligibility.
The Mandaue City Government is set to launch a mental health hotline in September, providing immediate assistance to individuals with mental health concerns. Personnel are currently undergoing specialized training conducted by the National Center for Mental Health.
The expansion of the school mental health workforce is part of the implementation of Republic Act No. 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which seeks to strengthen mental health services for learners through dedicated counseling and psychological care in schools.
According to local reports, the Department of Education is committed to improving student mental health and well-being.
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