Manila: Repeated student absences may soon be treated as more than an attendance problem, with the Department of Education (DepEd) considering them as possible early warning signs that a learner may need closer attention or intervention.

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Undersecretary Malcolm Garma revealed during a Senate hearing on Thursday that the department is enhancing its threat assessment system in response to recent school shooting incidents in Tacloban City and Zamboanga City. Garma emphasized the necessity of a more serious approach in monitoring student absences, suggesting that frequent absenteeism should be considered a potential red flag.

Garma noted the challenges teachers face in identifying attendance patterns due to large class sizes, which can obscure underlying issues. However, the department is committed to addressing this by exploring the use of artificial intelligence to track attendance and detect warning signs that may suggest a student is at risk of dropping out or exhibiting other concerning behaviors.

This initiative is part of a comprehensive threat assessment system that not only addresses human-induced threats but also considers behavioral manifestations among students and other risk indicators. DepEd is currently mapping areas where threats are more prevalent to allocate resources effectively, with initial findings indicating higher occurrences in highly urbanized areas.

To address these concerns, the department plans to deploy 10,000 school counselor associates in identified hotspots, although Garma acknowledged that nearly 46,000 would be needed nationwide to achieve the desired counselor-to-student ratio. These associates will focus on preventive mental health issues, while learner formation officers will manage disciplinary matters and anti-bullying interventions, ensuring clear distinctions between the roles.

Additionally, DepEd is strengthening mechanisms for students to anonymously report warning signs or threats involving their peers. The existing safe learning environment policy allows learners to report concerns without revealing their identities, with teachers assessing the information before escalating serious threats to higher authorities.