APPLICATION FORM FOR WELLNESS LEAVE (WL)

On February 13, 2026, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued DepEd Order No. 2, series of 2026 (DO 002, s. 2026), formally titled “Guidelines on the Grant of Wellness Leave for Department of Education Personnel.” This landmark policy establishes a structured framework for wellness leave — a dedicated type of leave aimed at promoting the overall well-being and mental health of teaching and non-teaching personnel across the DepEd system.

Purpose and Background

The wellness leave policy responds to growing recognition that the mental and physical health of educators is crucial not only for their personal welfare but also for the quality of education delivered within schools. Grounded in the principles of Republic Act No. 11036 or the Mental Health Act of the Philippines, the order seeks to create a more supportive work environment that nurtures resilience, reduces burnout, and enhances productivity among DepEd personnel.

Key Provisions of the Wellness Leave Policy

1. Eligibility and Scope

• Wellness leave is granted to all eligible DepEd personnel, regardless of age, gender, disability status, religion, or other factors.
• Both teaching and non-teaching employees of DepEd may avail themselves of this type of leave under the guidelines.

2. Maximum Duration

• Eligible personnel may be granted up to five (5) days of wellness leave within a given period.
• These days can be taken consecutively (up to three in a row) or non-consecutively, depending on individual needs and operational considerations.

3. Purpose of Leave

The policy defines wellness leave as distinct from other types of leave and may be utilized for:

• Mental health care (including therapy, counseling, or recovery periods).
• Physical wellness activities that strengthen health and overall resilience.
• General break from work to rest, recharge, and maintain work-life balance.

4. Confidentiality and Respect for Privacy

Wellness leave related to mental health concerns is subject to strict confidentiality protections.

Information regarding an employee’s mental health condition is treated with sensitivity and in accordance with applicable data privacy standards.

Significance and Expected Impact

The issuance of DepEd Order No. 2, s. 2026 marks a progressive shift in how the Philippine education system addresses its human resource challenges. By institutionalizing wellness leave, DepEd acknowledges the pressures faced by its workforce — including long hours, heavy workloads, and emotional stressors associated with classroom teaching and school administration.

APPLICATION FORM FOR WELLNESS LEAVE (WL)

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