CSC to oversee standardization of recruitment process for school counselors

Several government agencies signed on Tuesday the implementing rules and regulations on a new law that aims to strengthen mental health services in the education sector.

Present at the signing of the IRR for Republic Act 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, were Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Civil Service Commission Chairperson Marilyn Barua-Yap, Professional Regulation Commission Chairperson Charito Zamora, and other government officials.

In a statement, the CSC said the law provides for the creation of new plantilla positions dedicated to providing mental health support in public schools. These include schools division counselors, school counselors, and school counselor associates.

"The CSC fully supports the integration of mental health services into the education system by providing a structured career path for mental health professionals. These new plantilla positions guarantee stability, proper training, and long-term government support for mental health initiatives in schools,” Barua-Yap said.

Under the IRR, the CSC will oversee the standardization of qualification requirements, recruitment, and appointment processes for these positions, ensuring that qualified mental health professionals are deployed across Schools Division Offices (SDOs) and public schools nationwide.

This will help address the growing need for counseling, crisis intervention, and mental health education in the basic education system.

The CSC vowed to work closely with the Department of Education and the Department of Budget and Management to facilitate the hiring and funding of the new plantilla positions.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed RA 12080 on December 6, 2024. — Hana Bordey/VBL, GMA Integrated News