What it is
The Department of Education (DepEd) is expanding its network for student-led peer support through the My Buddy System. This initiative is part of DepEd's mental health and psychosocial support framework, aiming to create a safer and more supportive school environment. The My Buddy System is also part of the broader DepEd School Safety Campaign, which coincides with National School Safety Week.
Key points
- The system encourages early help-seeking among students while ensuring professionals manage risk assessments, formal referrals, and specialized care.
- Learner buddies will be organized through structured buddy pairings or small peer groups using a "big brother/big sister" model.
- The DepEd clarified that this peer facilitation is meant to assist and not replace the guidance counselors and teachers.
- DepEd is also implementing structured classroom checks during Homeroom Guidance sessions to monitor student well-being and safety.
Who is affected
This initiative involves students who are part of the buddy system, guidance counselors, teachers, School Counselor Associates, the Child Protection Committee (CPC), and the School Care Center. Parents and caregivers are also urged to participate due to their role in protecting students from online dangers.
What teachers should do
Teachers are involved through the structured classroom checks in Homeroom Guidance sessions, which serve to monitor student status and safety. The DepEd is also speeding up the deployment of School Counselor Associates to assist School Counselors in managing these peer groups and leading debriefings.
Source
Official source: deped.gov.ph