House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan highlighted that a key funding provision in the proposed 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) could proactively address school-related violence before incidents occur.
Libanan announced that the national government plans to allocate ₱802 million next year under the Department of Education to hire 2,021 additional guidance counselors across public elementary and high schools nationwide.
“We are all for increased government spending to bolster the support system around every learner. A child who is struggling should have ready access to a trained school professional who can listen and help,” Libanan said on Sunday, August 23.
The lawmaker stressed that the new funding comes at a vital time as educational institutions face escalating incidents of bullying, mental health concerns among youth, and threat risks.
“Early intervention is critical. We should be able to recognize warning signs and provide help before a problem becomes a tragedy,” he noted.
Under the ₱7.2-trillion national spending framework—the largest in the country’s history—the proposed ₱802 million will fund 1,800 School Counselor Associate I positions and 221 School Division Counselor posts. This budget proposal serves as the foundation for the upcoming General Appropriations Bill.
Libanan emphasized that counseling professionals play an indispensable role alongside educators, parents, and administrators in supporting students navigating emotional, behavioral, or psychological difficulties.
“Guidance counselors are part of our first line of defense. They help our schools become safer and more supportive communities for children,” Libanan said.
He also urged private basic education institutions to step up their investments in student mental health resources.
“We are counting on private elementary and high schools to also do their share. The well-being of our children is a shared responsibility,” he added.