Sen. Mark Villar has renewed his push for the immediate passage of the proposed Students' Guidance Counseling Act, citing the need to strengthen mental health and guidance services in schools following the stabbing of a Grade 8 student near Las Piñas National High School.
The senator reiterated his appeal after visiting the student, who remains hospitalized after sustaining multiple stab wounds in an attack that took place shortly after classes. During his visit, Villar met with the victim and extended assistance to her family while she continues to receive medical treatment.
"I personally visited the victim to check on her condition and to provide assistance to her family. We will continue to pray for her speedy and complete recovery," Villar said.
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Calls for Stronger Student Support Programs
The incident has raised concerns among parents, educators, and local officials, prompting renewed discussions on improving school safety and addressing violence involving minors. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Villar said the incident should serve as a reminder of the need to address youth violence before it escalates, emphasizing that children deserve to grow up and study in safe and supportive environments.
"We cannot allow violence to become normal among our children. Together, we must end the culture of violence and replace it with a culture of care, respect, and compassion," he said.
The senator stressed that preventing similar incidents requires more than heightened security measures in and around schools. He said stronger mental health services, guidance counseling, and youth intervention programs are essential in addressing the underlying causes of violence.
"We need to strengthen our mental health, guidance counseling, and youth intervention programs. We must guide our youth, listen to their experiences, and provide them with adequate support and opportunities to steer them away from the path of violence," Villar said.
Proposed Measure Seeks Expanded School Mental Health Services
Villar renewed his call for the passage of the Students' Guidance Counseling Act, which seeks to enhance school-based mental health programs by increasing access to licensed guidance counselors, psychologists, school social workers, and psychosocial support services in educational institutions nationwide.
According to the senator, expanding these services would give students better access to professional guidance and emotional support, helping them make informed decisions and develop in healthier environments.
"When we strengthen mental health support and guidance for our youth, we will better empower them to make good decisions and have a brighter future. It is the responsibility of all of us — parents, teachers, government, and the entire community — to ensure that every youth grows up in a safe, caring, and hopeful environment," Villar said.
The senator also expressed hope for the student's full recovery and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing policies that promote student welfare, improve mental health support, and create safer learning environments across the country.
The renewed push for stronger school-based guidance and mental health services highlights the growing importance of early intervention in addressing youth-related issues. For Filipino students and their families, accessible counseling and psychosocial support can play a vital role in promoting emotional well-being, preventing violence, and fostering safer schools where young people can learn and thrive.
