President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (Republic Act No. 12080), a landmark law aimed at integrating mental health services into the school system. Signed at Malacañan Palace, the law mandates mental health programs in both public and private schools across the Philippines, providing students with the resources to cope with academic and personal challenges.
This law responds to the increasing recognition of mental health issues among students, offering a proactive approach to support their well-being. By embedding mental health initiatives within schools, it seeks to create a nurturing environment where students can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
Key Provisions of the New Law
The Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act requires all schools to implement structured mental health programs. This includes creating Care Centers within schools where students can access counseling, psychological services, and emotional support. To further enhance support, the law also allows for the creation of new school counselor positions, ensuring that professional assistance is readily available.
In addition, each school division will establish a Mental Health and Well-Being Office to oversee the law’s implementation, ensuring that mental health services are effectively integrated and monitored. These provisions aim to build a comprehensive, accessible mental health framework within the educational system.
Strengthening Mental Health Support
Senator Risa Hontiveros, a key advocate for the law, emphasized that it complements the Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036) passed in 2018, which laid the foundation for nationwide mental health services. Hontiveros stressed that by addressing mental health within schools, the law allows for early intervention, preventing more serious issues down the road.
