DepEd signs IRR for mental health law, aims to update anti-bullying measures

Education Secretary Sonny Angara signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act on Tuesday, March 4.

Angara emphasized that this law will provide concrete steps to prioritize students' well-being and create a safe learning environment, ensuring every student and teacher has someone to turn to in times of need.

DepEd is working with EDCOM 2 to review and update the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, integrating anti-bullying and rights-based education into the curriculum.

EDCOM 2 highlighted that only 11 percent of bullying cases reported between November 2022 and July 2024 were resolved, underscoring the urgent need for updated measures.

DepEd will establish school-based mental health programs, including care centers in every public school and Mental Health and Well-Being Offices in each Schools Division Office to oversee these initiatives.

EDCOM 2 is also advocating for significant revisions to the IRR of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 to strengthen student protections and improve case resolution by the 2025-2026 school year.