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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DepEd to strengthen mental health support, reporting systems alongside school safety drills

DepEd to strengthen mental health support, reporting systems alongside school safety drills

Published Jul 16, 2026 09:28 pm

At A Glance

  • Education Secretary Sonny Angara said active attack drills are important in preparing schools for emergencies but should be complemented by programs that address students' mental and emotional well-being.
Pixabay photo
Pixabay photo
The Department of Education (DepEd) said active attack safety drills are only one component of its school safety measures, as it also expands mental health services and student reporting systems.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said active attack drills are important in preparing schools for emergencies but should be complemented by programs that address students' mental and emotional well-being.
“Hindi sapat na masanay lang ang ating mga mag-aaral sa mga drill para sa kanilang pisikal na kaligtasan; kailangan din nating siguruhin ang kanilang mental at emosyonal na kalusugan, at tiyaking may malalapitan silang helpline at mga gabay sa bawat paaralan nang walang takot (Training students through drills for their physical safety is not enough. We must also ensure their mental and emotional well being and make sure they have access to helplines and guidance services in every school without fear),”Angara said on Thursday, July 16.
According to the education chief, DepEd is strengthening its reporting mechanisms to ensure that students experiencing distress have access to appropriate support.
The initiatives are part of the government's efforts to improve school safety following President Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance security in schools nationwide.
DepEd launched its active attack safety drills during the National Safe Schools Summit at Manila Science High School on July 15.
The department said the drills will complement other safety measures, including a nationwide school safety audit, increased police visibility around schools, and funding for closed circuit television systems, metal detectors, and the repair of school perimeter fences.
DepEd also said it has expanded the National Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline to all regions in partnership with the National Center for Mental Health to make psychological support services more accessible to students.
The department is also preparing to hire around 10,000 School Counselor Associates after the Civil Service Commission approved the qualification standards for the position.
The counselors are expected to provide guidance and mental health support to learners.
Under DepEd Order No. 6, series of 2026, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment, schools are directed to implement localized anti bullying measures and security protocols, including regular bag inspections.
DepEd said social emotional learning has also been integrated into the curriculum to help students identify warning signs of abuse, understand reporting and referral mechanisms, and encourage help seeking behavior.

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DEPED MENTAL HEALTH SECRETARY SONNY ANGARA
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