The Department of Education has fewer than 1,000 registered guidance counselors serving more than 45,000 schools nationwide, a ranking official said.
DepEd Undersecretary Willie Cabral said the shortage is concerning amid rising cases of violence and bullying in schools.
To address the gap, the department plans to hire at least 10,000 school counselor associates this year under Republic Act 12080.
The Department of Budget and Management has authorized the positions, with thousands of applications and assessments already underway.
The move aims to strengthen mental health and well-being services in basic education schools.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 23, 2026
OVER 45,000 SCHOOLS HAVE JUST 1,000 GUIDANCE COUNSELORS – DEPED
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