The enrolled 2026 national budget has allotted ₱2.9 billion for the implementation of the School-Based Mental Health Program and the establishment of a Learner Wellness Division, Senator Win Gatchalian said on Friday.
The funding supports the rollout of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (Republic Act No. 12080), which Gatchalian authored. The law mandates the development and strengthening of school-based mental health initiatives aimed at promoting learner well-being and addressing mental health concerns, including suicide prevention in schools.
“Kinikilala natin ang bigat at agarang pangangailangan na tugunan ang mga suliranin sa mental health ng mga kabataan. Kaya bahagi ng makasaysayang pondong inilaan natin para sa sektor ng edukasyon ang pagtaguyod sa mental health at kapakanan ng ating mga mag-aaral,” said Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Finance.
Under the law’s implementing rules and regulations, a Learner Wellness Division will be created under the Bureau of Learner Support Services. The division will be responsible for setting annual implementation targets, including the establishment of school mental health offices and care centers, as well as the filling of required plantilla positions.
Gatchalian said the measure underscores the government’s commitment to integrating mental health services into the basic education system to ensure holistic support for learners nationwide.
