Mental health
DON’T look now, but the government is determined to ensure the emotional well-being of students and teachers in public and private schools across the country.
This, after President Marcos signed a legislation last Monday that aims to integrate the promotion of mental health in the country’s basic education program.
In signing the new law, Mr. Marcos noted the increasing number of Filipino youngsters who are struggling with their mental health.
“Seventeen percent of our young people have contemplated taking their life, yet less than one percent sought professional help,” he said.
The new law is Republic Act (RA) No. 12080 or the “Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act.”
We share the view of the authors of the bill that the measure is seen to ensure that students and teachers are emotionally and mentally equipped to excel amid facing challenges.
And we agree with them when they said that when students are mentally healthy, academic performance improves and absenteeism decreases.
Doubtless, RA No. 12080 will allow public and privte schools nationwide to become “sanctuaries of learning and well-being.”
Under the legislation, all basic education schools will have “care centers,” headed by a school counselor and assisted by counselor associates.
Indeed, ensuring the mental health of students and teachers deserves the support of all sectors of Philippine society.
