Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

Twentieth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 18 82

Introduced by Hon. Alexandria P. Gonzales

EXPLANATORY NOTE

In recent years, the prevalence of mental health challenges among Filipino students has risen
significantly. The Philippine Mental Health Law (Republic Act No. 11036) was a landmark step
forward in addressing mental health concerns across the nation. However, inequalities in
mental health access and support persist, especially in underfunded schools, remote
‘communities, and among vulnerable learners.

‘The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with digital learning shifts, socio-economic pressures, and
post-pandemic trauma, has further deepened the mental health crisis in education. Generations
XY (millennials), Z, A, and future learners face unique psychosocial risks that must be
addressed comprehensively, early, and equitably.

‘The Mental Health Equity in Education Act aims to:

1. Institutionalize school-based mental health programs from basic to tertiary education;

2. Promote equal access to culturally sensitive, age-appropriate, and trauma-informed
mental health services;

3. Provide dedicated personnel, capacity building and referral systems in all public and
private learning institutions;

4. Mandate mental health equity plans for schools in underserved and high-risk

communities;
5. Establish a mental health equity fund and monitoring framework in partnership with
DOH, DepEd, CHED, TESDA, LGUs, and CSOs.

Mental health is not a privilege—it is a right. To achieve an inclusive, healthy, and thriving
education system, this bill proposes a bold yet necessary investment in mental wellness for all

Filipino learners.

In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

AL 1A P. GONZALES


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

Twentieth Congress
First Regular Session

1882

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by Hon. Alexandria P. Gonzales

AN ACT
PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH EQUITY IN THE PHILIPPINE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM,
INSTITUTIONALIZING MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS IN SCHOOLS, AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Mental Health Equity in Education
“Act”

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - tis the policy of the State to protect and promote the right
to mental health and well-being of all learners. The State shall ensure equitable, accessible,
and inclusive mental health programs within the Philippine educational system.

SEC. 3. Objectives, - This Act seeks to:

a) Institutionalize comprehensive mental health programs across all educational
levels;

b) Bridge disparities in access to mental health services;

©) Promote mental health literacy and de-stigmatization;

d) Build capacities of schools to respond to mental health needs;

e) Coordinate among agencies to implement sustainable mental health equity plans.

SEC. 4. Scope and Coverage. - This Act shall cover all public and private institutions in
basic, secondary, tertiary, and technical-vocational education.

SEC. 5. Mandatory Mental Health Programs in Schools. - All schools shall:

a) Integrate mental health education into the curriculum;

b) Establish school-based mental health support services;

©) Employ or designate licensed mental health professionals;

d) Develop peer support programs and wellness campaigns;

e) Forma mental health equity committee within the school administration.


SEC. 6. Mental Health Equity Plans. - Schools located in marginalized, remote, or high-risk
communities shall develop a Mental Health Equity Plan with the assistance of DepEd, CHED,
DOH, and LGUs. These plans shall include specific targets, services, and culturally
responsive interventions.

SEC. 7. Capacity Building and Training. - Teachers, guidance counselors, school heads, and
health personnel shall undergo continuing education on mental health, psychological first
aid, trauma-informed care, and child protection.

SEC. 8. National Mental Health Equity Fund. - There shall be established a Mental Health
Equity Fund to support the implementation of this Act. Funding shall be sourced from the
General Appropriations Act and other grants, donations, or partnerships.

SEC. 9. Interagency Coordination. - The implementation of this Act shall be led by a Joint
Task Force composed of DepEd, CHED, DOH, TESDA, and DSWD, with active participation
from LGUs, CSOs, and parent-learner groups.

SEC. 10. Monitoring and Evaluation. - An annual report shall be submitted to Congress
detailing the status of implementation, impact assessments, and recommendations for
improvement.

SEC. 11. Appropriations, - Such sums as may be necessary to implement the provisions of
this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 12. Separability Clause. - If any part of this Act is declared unconstitutional, the
remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

SEC. 13, Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules, and regulations
inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

SEC. 14. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,