President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday signed into law a measure seeking to institutionalize government efforts against “alarming” mental health concerns among learners.

Marcos officially approved the legislation of the Republic Act (RA) 12080 or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act during a ceremonial signing in Malacañang Palace.

“Today, we renew our promise to every Filipino: that they will not only succeed academically but thrive holistically. Together, we envision a Philippines where mental health is prioritized alongside education, fostering a generation equipped to lead with resilience, compassion and purpose,” Marcos said in his speech.

He noted that the law allows schools to become “sanctuaries of learning and well-being.”

RA 12080 targets establishing mental health and well-being programs for basic education learners and teaching and non-teaching personnel in public and private schools.

Marcos said the law also serves as an investment in the nation’s “intellectual, emotional, and social future and development.”

“When our learners and school personnel are mentally healthy, academic performance improves, absenteeism decreases and a culture of compassion and understanding flourishes,” Marcos said.

The President lamented the country’s statistics on mental health concerns are “alarming” stressing that 17 percent of young people have “contemplated taking their life, yet less than 1 percent sought professional help.”

“This law aims to bridge that gap by embedding mental health services directly into our schools — our nation’s first line of defense against mental health issues,” he said.

He also cited that mental health challenges could cost 16 trillion in losses by 2030 globally.

Marcos noted the legislation as “urgent” and should be imposed immediately to encourage students to be “more productive and ready to contribute to nation-building efforts.”

“Locally, the toll is evident in decreased academic outcomes, burnout, and turnover rates among students and school personnel,” he lamented.

Under the newly enacted law, Care Centers will be established in every public basic education school, to be headed by a School Counselor.