SENATOR Mark Villar is pushing for a measure aimed at strengthening mental health services in schools through the recruitment, hiring, and training of school-based licensed guidance counselors, psychologists, social workers, and other mental health personnel.

Villar’s Senate Bill No. 2133 seeks to address the growing mental health concerns among Filipino students amid increasing academic pressures, socio-economic challenges, and other environmental factors.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Villar cited studies showing a sharp rise in mental health issues among Filipino youth.

Research referenced in the measure showed that moderate to severe depressive symptoms among Filipinos aged 15 to 24 rose from 9.6 percent in 2013 to 20.9 percent in 2021, indicating a significant deterioration in youth mental health conditions.

The proposed legislation also highlighted the shortage of guidance counselors in Philippine schools, describing it as a major gap in student mental health support.

According to the bill, the current counselor-to-student ratio in the country is estimated at 1:14,000, far behind the global benchmark of 1:250.

The measure further noted that the Department of Education has recognized the shortage of guidance counselors, underscoring the need for stronger government intervention and systemic reforms.

If enacted into law, the bill would establish a framework for educational institutions to take a more active role in the early identification, intervention, and management of students’ mental health concerns.