18/08/2026
Beyond School Security: Protecting Our Students’ Mental Health
In light of the recent tragic incidents involving mass shootings and student suicides, we are reminded that keeping our schools safe goes beyond physical security.
Months ago, the Lahug Barangay Council, headed by Barangay Captain Hazel Empleo, together with former Cebu City Councilor Mary Ann Delos Santos, extended the Barangay Behavioral Health Unit Program, under Program Director Dr. Pocholo de los Santos, to Lahug Elementary School and Lahug Night High School.
The program aims to equip schools with knowledge and training in early detection, psychological first aid, counseling, and proper intervention—particularly for students experiencing bullying, family problems, emotional distress, and other mental health concerns.
Many cases of violence and self-harm may involve warning signs that can be overlooked. This is why we must look beyond the security measures surrounding our schools and also look within our students—their experiences, struggles, relationships, and emotional well-being.
A safe school is not only a school with security personnel, cameras, and emergency protocols. It is also a school where students feel heard, supported, understood, and safe enough to ask for help.
Prevention begins with awareness.
Intervention begins with listening.
Protection begins with caring for the whole student.
Let us strengthen both school security and mental health support, because protecting our children means protecting both their physical safety and their well-being.
