A proposed measure in the Senate seeks to expand access to guidance counseling and psychosocial support services in schools, amid growing concern over the mental health struggles of Filipino students.
Senate Bill No. 2133, or the proposed Students’ Guidance Counseling Act, aims to strengthen school-based mental health programs and ensure that learners have access to trained professionals who can help them cope with emotional distress, academic pressure, bullying, anxiety, depression, and other related concerns.
The proposal comes as studies show a worsening mental health situation among young Filipinos. Research published by Cambridge University Press earlier found that moderate to severe depressive symptoms among Filipinos aged 15 to 24 more than doubled over an eight-year period.
Other studies have also pointed to the impact of rising academic demands, socio-economic difficulties, family problems, and external stressors on the emotional and psychological well-being of students.
A major challenge identified by the bill is the severe shortage of guidance counselors in the country. The current counselor-to-student ratio in the Philippines is estimated at around 1:14,000, far from the global standard of 1:250.
Data from the Department of Education (DepEd) also show that thousands of guidance counselor positions nationwide remain vacant, limiting the ability of schools to respond quickly to learners in need of support.
Under the proposed measure, filed by Senator Mark Villar, educational institutions will be required to strengthen guidance and counseling services. It provides for the appointment of qualified counselors and the hiring and continuous training of at least one associate counselor or school social worker in public schools.
The bill also seeks to establish stronger mental health and wellness programs, referral systems, and early intervention mechanisms for students who may need specialized care.
Supporters of the measure said these reforms would help schools identify mental health concerns earlier, respond more effectively to students in crisis, and create safer learning environments.
The proposed law also aims to reduce the stigma around seeking help by making guidance and counseling services more visible, accessible, and integrated into school life.
By improving school-based mental health support, the measure seeks to protect not only students’ academic performance but also their overall well-being and future development.
The bill frames mental health care as an essential part of education, stressing that schools must serve not only as places of instruction but also as safe spaces where learners can receive guidance, compassion, and timely support.