Philippines doubles down on student mental health; expands school mental health workforce
A series of violent incidents involving minors has heightened concerns over student mental health in the Philippines, prompting government agencies to strengthen counseling services in schools.
One major challenge is the shortage of guidance counselors. Reports showed that, as of 2022, only 4,069 counselors were serving 27.4 million elementary and high school students, or a ratio of about one counselor for every 6,700 students, well below the global benchmark of one for every 250.
Related: Violent video games can affect children’s mental health says Dzulkefly
In response, the Department of Education (DepEd) is poised to hire more guidance counselors to help address violence on school campuses following several crimes involving minor students in different parts of the country.
CSC greenlights standards for new school counselors
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has approved the qualification standards for newly created school counselor positions in public basic education institutions as part of the implementation of Republic Act No. 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act.
The law seeks to strengthen mental health services for learners through dedicated counseling and psychological care in schools.
Under CSC Resolution No. 2600920, the commission approved qualification standards for Schools Division Counselor, School Counselor I to IV, and School Counselor Associate I to V positions under the Department of Education.
CSC Chairperson Marilyn Yap said the standards are intended to ensure that qualified professionals are assigned to schools to promote students’ mental health and well-being.
Related: Professional services needed to address children’s mental health
The standards outline the education, experience, training, and eligibility requirements for the new positions, which will form part of the Mental Health and Well-Being Offices required under the law.
Applicants for 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 as a guidance counselor or psychologist. Experience and training requirements vary depending on the position.
Meanwhile, applicants for School Counselor Associate I to V must possess a bachelor’s degree in guidance and counseling, psychology, or a related discipline, including at least 18 units in behavioral science and 200 hours of supervised practicum or internship in a school or community setting. They must also have Career Service Professional Eligibility.
According to the CSC, the approved standards will serve as the basis for evaluating personnel actions and appointments to the newly created DepEd positions.
Mandaue City to launch mental health hotline
Meanwhile, the Mandaue City Government is preparing to launch a mental health hotline in September to provide immediate assistance to individuals experiencing mental health concerns.
Reports said preparations are nearly complete, with personnel currently undergoing specialized training conducted by the National Center for Mental Health.
Category: Community
