In 2026, public secondary schools in Manila will begin pilot-testing mental health literacy programs thanks to a new partnership between the University of the Philippines-Manila (UPM) and the Department of Education (DepEd).
This initiative, formalized via a memorandum of agreement, is part of efforts to address the increasing mental health challenges among adolescents. The focus is on equipping junior high school students and their teachers with knowledge about early warning signs of mental health concerns, so intervention can happen sooner if needed. Importantly, the materials do not aim to diagnose disorders but rather promote awareness and help-seeking behaviors.
As part of the plan, DepEd will pilot learning modules and mental health literacy tools in select schools in Manila. The outcomes from this pilot will then be reviewed by DepEd’s central office, with the possibility of scaling the program nationwide.
This pilot aligns with the recently enacted Republic Act No. 12080, also known as the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act. This law mandates the creation of school-based mental health programs in all basic education institutions. Services will include screening, first aid, crisis response and referral, plus awareness and preventive programs. The law also establishes Care Centers in public schools, a Mental Health and Well-Being Office in every Schools Division Office (SDO), and new plantilla (official) positions for school counselors and counselor associates.
Moreover, DepEd has issued its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) to guide how mental health literacy and services will be delivered in schools, both public and private.
This move is being welcomed by many educators and mental health advocates, especially because it provides structure, resources, and official support — factors often lacking in informal or ad hoc mental health efforts.