House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan says the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) has a feature that could go a long way in nipping potential school violence in the bud.

According to Libanan, the national government plans to spend P802 million next year to hire a total of 2,021 new guidance counselors for public elementary and high schools in a bid to strengthen the mental health services of the Department of Education (DepEd).

“We are all for increased government spending to bolster the support system around every learner. A child who is struggling should have ready access to a trained school professional who can listen and help,” Libanan said on Sunday, Aug. 23.

Libanan says the fresh funding allocation is especially timely as schools face growing concerns over bullying, student mental health and threats of violence.

“Early intervention is critical. We should be able to recognize warning signs and provide help before a problem becomes a tragedy,” he noted.

The proposed 2027 national budget specifically provides P802 million for the creation of 1,800 new School Counselor Associate I positions and 221 new School Division Counselor positions for DepEd, according to Libanan.

The 2027 NEP--the basis for next year's General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget--is pegged at P7.2 trillion, the largest in the country's history.

The Minority Leader said guidance counselors play an important role in helping teachers, parents and school administrators understand and respond to students who may be experiencing emotional, behavioral or psychological difficulties.

“Guidance counselors are part of our first line of defense. They help our schools become safer and more supportive communities for children,” Libanan said.

Private elementary and high schools also urged to invest in additional professional guidance and counseling services

Libanan also expressed hope that private elementary and high schools would increase their own investments in professional guidance and counseling services.

“We are counting on private elementary and high schools to also do their share. The well-being of our children is a shared responsibility,” he added.

The increase in guidance personnel comes as the country reels from two fatal school shootings in a span of less than two months--something that has caused alarm among House members.

On June 22, two students aged 14 and 15 and armed with a 9mm Glock pistol and a .38-caliber revolver opened fire at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. Three fellow students were killed, while 20 others were injured.

Then, on Aug. 18, a 14-year-old Grade 8 student opened fire at the high school building of Ateneo de Zamboanga University in Zamboanga City. The shooter gunned down a 15-year-old Grade 10 student before taking his own life.

Authorities said the assailant had brought a pistol and a rifle into the school and had partly livestreamed the attack via a body-worn camera.

“These incidents show why we must invest not only in physical security but also in the emotional and psychological support available to our students. Prevention must begin long before a crisis occurs,” Libanan said.