MANILA — Education Secretary Sonny Angara called on teachers to strengthen their emotional support for learners following the recent shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato.

Angara urged educators to act as “compassionate foster parents” in schools, particularly for students who may feel isolated, overlooked, or lack emotional support at home.

“For those who are very susceptible to influence from whatever they see online, and those who are looking for validation from their families but perhaps do not receive it, let us give them that as their foster parents at school,” Angara said.

The call came after the September 18 shooting at Banga National High School, where three students, including the identified shooter, died. DepEd has since been coordinating with law enforcement while providing mental health and psychosocial support to those affected.

Angara described the incident as a “wake-up call” for the Department of Education and said schools must recognize the challenges currently confronting young people.

“We can overcome this. But we must acknowledge that there is a mental health epidemic among our youth today, and we must look to the roots of this and understand it,” he said.

Among the approaches encouraged by Angara are simple measures such as learning students’ names, understanding their struggles, regularly checking on their well-being, and spending more time connecting with them.

DepEd is also reviewing existing measures to give teachers more opportunities to engage with learners beyond academic concerns.

“We acknowledge the academic gains made by our teachers, but in terms of addressing the emotional problems of our children, we still have crucial work to do,” Angara said.

The Philippines posted higher average scores in mathematics, reading, and science in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment compared with both 2022 and 2018, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Alongside its focus on learner well-being, DepEd has strengthened security measures in public schools.

Existing policies require routine bag inspections using authorized non-contact methods such as scanners, handheld metal detectors, or search sticks. Schools have also strengthened CCTV use, visitor management, emergency drills, and coordination with police and local authorities.

DepEd has also imposed restrictions on mobile phone use in schools and urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s smartphone and social media activities at home.

The department is expanding its Kaagapay Program, which formally involves parents, guardians, and caregivers in supporting learner well-being, values formation, positive discipline, and bullying prevention.

Under the program, parent engagement sessions are designed to help families better recognize socio-emotional needs, behavioral concerns, bullying, and early signs of distress among children.

Angara said ensuring the safety and well-being of learners remains a priority as DepEd strengthens both school security and support systems for students.

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