Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go cites a shortage of mental health professionals in the Philippines on Thursday, following the shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte, which left three students dead and several injured.

Go said there are only about 4,000 to 4,069 licensed guidance counselors nationwide as of 2022, failing to meet the ideal target of around 47,000.

“It was also reported during the hearing that we have 50 child psychiatrists in the Philippines. We really have a crisis in terms of our supply of mental health professionals,” Go said.

With this, Go revealed that he filed Senate Bill 176 in the Congress to establish mental health offices in all public higher education institutions nationwide, proposing the formation of mental health offices in all public higher education institutions nationwide to provide accessible counseling services, trained medical—or trained mental health professionals, and 24/7 mental health hotlines for students.

"I have long been saying that mental health deserves serious attention. Seeking help should never be a source of shame. If a child is struggling, they should have someone to talk to, someone they can turn to for help before the problem gets worse,” Go added.

Go also spoke against creating a negative view of online gaming, pushing for responsible gaming, parental guidance, and preventing violent extremists and criminal groups from using online platforms.