MEETING THE DEMAND FOR GUIDANCE COUNSELORS IN PHILIPPINE SCHOOLS

MEETING THE DEMAND FOR GUIDANCE COUNSELORS IN PHILIPPINE SCHOOLS In Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, The Emperor’s New Clothes, it was a young boy who bravely spoke the truth, revealing that the emperor was wearing nothing at all. In a modern context, we might wish for another child to point out a different uncomfortable truth: the presence of guidance counselors in Philippine schools seems like an illusion. The Department of Education (DepEd) estimates a need for around 47,000 guidance counselors to cater to students across the country. However, DepEd currently has Plantilla items for only about 4,460 positions. This glaring gap leaves students without crucial mental health support and career guidance. What can be done to address this shortage? The First Solution: Overloading the Few Counselors We Have One option is to assign one counselor to cover multiple schools—perhaps as many as ten. While this may seem like a quick fix, it risks overworking the limited number of guidance counselors. More importantly, it dilutes the quality of services students receive. The emotional and psychological well-being of our youth deserves undivided attention, not a fragmented and overstretched system. The Second Solution: Harnessing Private Sector Volunteers Another solution involves tapping into the goodwill of private sector volunteers. Psychologists, social workers, and retired educators could lend their expertise to support students. However, coordination becomes a challenge. Who would oversee the efforts of these volunteers? Could DepEd district supervisors manage this network of volunteers? Could Local Government Units (LGUs) play a role in organizing this support? Perhaps even Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) could establish coordinating committees. Without clear leadership, even the most well-intentioned efforts could fail. The Role of Inter-Agency Collaboration Mental health is not solely an educational concern—it is a public health issue. The Department of Health (DOH) must have a voice in this conversation. LGUs could pass ordinances creating inter-agency committees comprising representatives from DepEd, DOH, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and local education committees. Alternatively, active local School Boards could take on this role. Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) should also be engaged, providing valuable insights and feedback from parents and guardians. After all, a collaborative approach strengthens community support for students in need. Career Guidance: The Neglected Role of Counselors Guidance counseling isn’t just about addressing mental health concerns. Equally important is supporting students in navigating their career paths. Many Filipinos, me included, can recall a time when career guidance was little more than a vague suggestion. My high school counselor simply encouraged me to find a way to attend the University of the Philippines—a commendable goal, but hardly a tailored career plan. The implementation of structured career days, mentorship programs, and personalized counseling sessions should be prioritized. Every student deserves informed guidance in choosing their educational and career trajectory. Funding Solutions: Tapping into the Special Education Fund The Special Education Fund (SEF) could be a valuable resource in financing guidance counseling initiatives. This fund, managed by LGUs, is intended for the enhancement of educational services. Investing in mental health support and career counseling aligns perfectly with the SEF’s purpose. Reskilling Teachers as Guidance Counselors To bridge the gap further, some teachers could be reskilled to serve as guidance counselors. With proper training in counseling and mental health support, they could provide initial assistance to students. However, it is essential to distinguish between this supplementary role and the need for licensed professionals to handle complex cases. Addressing Bullying and Discrimination Guidance counselors also play a critical role in addressing bullying, including the rising issue of cyberbullying. Moreover, they can support students who face discrimination, whether they are Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Indigenous Peoples (IPs), members of the LGBTQ+ community, or children of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). A safe and inclusive school environment is essential for student well-being and academic success. Guidance counselors are not a luxury—they are a necessity. Moving On It’s time for decisive action. The government must prioritize the hiring of guidance counselors by increasing Plantilla positions and allocating funds for mental health services. At the same time, local communities, private sector volunteers, and NGOs can contribute to filling the gap in the interim. Let us no longer pretend that the emperor is clothed. Acknowledge the truth—our schools need more guidance counselors, and they need them now. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-15-2025