Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) is expanding its efforts to support mental health and prevent bullying in public schools under its Kaagapay program in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the welfare of both learners and teachers in the country.
According to Philippine News Agency, Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced that the program will now involve parents, guardians, and caregivers as 'co-educators' to strengthen learners' support systems. Angara emphasized the importance of collaboration between families and schools in fostering values and understanding the challenges children face, which ultimately benefits both learners and teachers.
Under DepEd Memorandum No. 002, series of 2026, parents and guardians will assist in reinforcing 'values formation, positive discipline, and well-being at home' for elementary and secondary learners. The Kaagapay program will also conduct engagement sessions to enable co-educator partners to share best practices, guided reflection, and action planning.
These sessions aim to help parents understand the behavior, socio-emotional needs, and early signs of distress or bullying among learners. While participation in the program is voluntary, the DepEd assures that measures are in place to uphold privacy and prevent stigma.
The Kaagapay program is backed by a PHP100 million fund for nationwide implementation and is being carried out alongside the PHP2.9 billion School-Based Mental Health Program.
