Mental health law for students pushed
In a significant move to prioritize the mental health of Filipino students, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill 2200, or the proposed Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which aims to provide comprehensive mental health support for and promote the overall well-being of the youth in the country’s basic education system.
The proposed measure is principally authored and sponsored by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.
“As we strive for progress and development, we must recognize the importance of prioritizing mental health in the lives of our young learners. Basic education forms the foundation upon which the future of our nation is built. It equips the youth with knowledge, skills and values, empowering them to become responsible citizens and contributors to society,” said Go, in his co-sponsorship speech last Wednesday, 17 May.
“However, the well-being of our students should not be overlooked in this pursuit of academic excellence. We must acknowledge the inseparable connection between education and mental health, as a child cannot thrive academically if (his/her) mental well-being is compromised,” he continued.
Under the proposed bill, private and public basic education schools will be mandated to integrate mental health education and support services into their curriculum. It recognizes the urgent need to address mental health concerns among students, considering the increasing prevalence of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, among the youth.
Go cited that promoting mental health must be a crucial component of the educational system. By addressing mental health concerns early on, students can develop resilience, coping mechanisms and emotional intelligence, which are vital for their overall growth and success, he added.
Third and final reading
As this developed, Go expressed his gratitude to his fellow lawmakers as his proposed Senate Bill 2212, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, passed the third and final reading in the Senate.
In a manifestation last Monday, 29 May, Go, as sponsor of the measure, placed significant emphasis on the invaluable role of the Filipino people in shaping public policies especially in the healthcare system, stating, “It is your experiences and stories that have driven us to create a healthcare system that is compassionate, accessible and designed to meet the needs of every Filipino.”