Guidance counselors and associates in the Negros Island Region are receiving opportunities to advance their education through the Learning Initiatives for Nurturing Guidance Associates and Counselors Program (LINGAP), a scholarship initiative aimed at strengthening student support and mental health services in schools. The Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis awarded scholarship assistance to nine guidance counselors and associates in Negros Island Region on October 9, 2026. The awarding took place during the Joint Education Trifocal Management Committee Conference at the Negros Oriental Convention Center in Dumaguete City.
Supporting Advanced Studies in Guidance and Counseling
The LINGAP Scholarship provides beneficiaries with the opportunity to pursue master's degrees in psychology, guidance, and counseling at CHED-recognized higher education institutions. Through graduate-level education, the program aims to help guidance professionals strengthen their knowledge and capabilities in supporting students. Their work can play an important role in addressing learners' emotional, social, and psychological needs, particularly as schools continue to focus on student well-being. During the event, CHED and DepEd also recognized more than 200 LINGAP scholars, highlighting the program's broader reach and its role in supporting professionals working in education.
Strengthening Mental Health Support in Schools
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara described the initiative as aligned with the department's efforts to intensify psychosocial support for students. CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis also emphasized the program's value in empowering guidance counselors to provide mental health support to learners. Guidance counselors help students navigate academic challenges, personal concerns, and other difficulties that may affect their school experience. Providing these professionals with opportunities for further study can contribute to stronger counseling services and more informed student support. The scholarship initiative reflects the importance of investing in the people who help create supportive learning environments, where students can seek guidance and access appropriate assistance when needed.
Investing in the Future of Education in NIR
The scholarship awarding brought together education leaders and representatives from government agencies committed to advancing educational development. Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General Secretary Kiko Benitez also witnessed the ceremony. By supporting further education for guidance counselors and associates, the LINGAP program offers beneficiaries an opportunity to develop their professional expertise while contributing to student welfare in their respective communities.
The initiative highlights the connection between professional development and student support, recognizing that well-prepared guidance personnel are an important part of a more responsive and supportive education system.
