The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched an enhanced Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline, offering students direct access to the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline. Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced this initiative during a visit to General Tiburcio De Leon National High School.
The Helpline, reachable at #33733, aims to assist students experiencing mental health crises by connecting them to professional help quickly. Angara emphasized the importance of supporting every learner under President Bongbong Marcos' leadership.
We aim to show students that they are not alone and that there is always someone ready to listen to their struggles.
Sonny Angara
The TeleSafe Helpline integrates a two-way referral system, ensuring that urgent cases are addressed by mental health professionals promptly. The service is supported by PLDT Inc., which facilitates instant connections to NCMH specialists.
Angara also visited the Learner Support Center at the school, which combines various support services for students. This initiative is part of a nationwide rollout, with simultaneous events occurring in several locations, including Iloilo City and Cagayan de Oro.
Comprehensive Support for Students
During his visit, Angara evaluated the YAKAP at Kalinga Caravan, a collaborative effort with PhilHealth that delivers free health services to students and their families. The event aimed to provide essential medical, dental, and psychosocial support.
He welcomed new members of the school's Peer Hub, a group of student leaders trained to offer mental health support among their peers. This initiative encourages a more approachable environment for students hesitant to seek help from adults.
I want to help my fellow students feel comfortable discussing their issues with peers rather than adults.
Zeus Embalsado, Grade 12 student
The launch of the TeleSafe Helpline and related programs aligns with the Universal Health Care Act and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-being Promotion Act, both of which Angara helped advocate during his Senate term.