09/09/2026
YOUTH UPDATES | Creating a Culture of Care: A Mental Health Seminar on Su***de Prevention, Anti-Bullying, and Learner Rights and Protection Concerns in DepEd
In support of Project Gabay: PGT โ Puso, Galing, at Talino para sa Mas Maunlad na Paaralan and in observance of the National Su***de Prevention Month in the Philippines, the Schools Division Office of Lipa City, through the School Governance and Operations Division (SGOD) โ Youth Formation Division, in collaboration with the Health and Nutrition Unit, successfully conducted the Mental Health Seminar on Su***de Prevention, Anti-Bullying, and Learner Rights and Protection (LRP) Concerns in DepEd on September 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM via Microsoft Teams.
The seminar aimed to: (1) raise awareness among the participants on the importance of mental health by providing essential knowledge on su***de prevention, anti-bullying, and the appropriate handling of Learner Rights and Protection (LRP) concerns; (2) equip participants with practical strategies and intervention skills to promote safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments where learnersโ psychological, emotional, and social well-being are prioritized; and (3) strengthen the DepEd Core Value of Makatao by fostering collaboration among stakeholders in addressing mental health challenges, preventing bullying, and ensuring the protection and welfare of every learner.
The activity was attended by 303 participants, the program management team, and a guest speaker. Participants included student leaders from SELG, SSLG, YES-O, and NDEP/BKD; School Child Protection Committee members, including school heads, guidance designates, teacher representatives, and student representatives; and Learner Formation Officers.
Key discussions were facilitated by the guest speaker, Ms. Lesliefin U. Mercado-Brucal, RPsy, and the program proponent, Ms. Jem Irise R. Pastrana, who delivered the presentation on behalf of the second speaker, Atty. Lovelyn M. Atienza. The discussions provided participants with valuable insights on the early detection, prevention, and intervention of emotional distress and suicidal ideation, as well as the relevant provisions of DepEd Memorandum No. 090, s. 2025, or the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10627, otherwise known as the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, and DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment.
Results of the pre-test and post-test demonstrated an improvement in the participantsโ knowledge, with the average score increasing from 6.28/10 in the pre-test to 8.40/10 in the post-test, representing a 33.76% increase in the average score. The active participation and engagement of the participants throughout the activity likewise contributed to the successful attainment of its objectives.
The successful conduct of the activity was made possible through the collective efforts and support of the Top Management, SGOD Chief, EPS-SGOD, and other SGOD personnel of the Schools Division Office of Lipa City, as well as the guest speakers, participants, and other stakeholders who continuously advocate for the protection, welfare, and well-being of learners by promoting safe, inclusive, and motivating learning environments.
The activity served as an avenue for strengthening awareness, collaboration, and shared responsibility among school personnel and student leaders in promoting mental health, preventing bullying, and addressing learner rights and protection concerns.
Together, let us continue fostering schools and communities where every learner feels safe, valued, respected, and heard.
