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Aimed at improving mental health programs in schools, Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act.

In a press release, Angara said we will ensure it is not just a policy but a concrete step to guarantee that every student and teacher has someone to turn to in times of need.)

Under the IRR, DepEd will prioritize establishing a Mental Health and Well-Being Office (MHWO) in high-burden areas to support students’ well-being and create an enabling learning environment.

DepEd is also collaborating with EDCOM 2 to review and update the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, making it more responsive to current school realities.

To address the underreporting of bullying cases, Anti-Bullying and Rights-Based Education will be integrated into the curriculum, and the Anti-Bullying Policy and Code of Conduct will be included in the Learner’s Handbook.

With the implementation of this law, Social and Behavior Change (SBC) materials will be distributed nationwide to reinforce awareness and advocacy against bullying.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. last year, signed the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act. The law also provides for new plantilla positions for school counselors.