On October 19, 2024, CHESTCORE in collaboration with SIGLAT youth hub, CWEARC, CYC, Coalition of Health Workers’ Organization in the Cordillera, Northern Luzon Mental Health Advocacy Network, and Team Aywan of the Safe and Sound Cities Project, held a seminar titled “Strengthening Advocacy and Cooperation on Mental Health” at Ion Hotel Legarda. The event aimed to enhance collaboration among various mental health service providers and advocacy organizations to raise awareness about mental health and extend their commitments to the community beyond their standard services. It brought together mental health professionals, educators, local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), students, and community members to discuss the challenges and solutions related to mental health.
Ricky Ducas Jr., the Coordinator of the Wellness and Mental Health Department at the Baguio City Health Services Office, presented an insightful overview of the prevalent mental health conditions affecting residents of Baguio City. He cited five primary mental health issues: depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. These conditions also affect the youth, particularly those aged 15 to 30. During the seminar, Ducas highlighted the concerning rise in suicide rates in Baguio. In 2023, the city recorded 36 instances of suicide, with a significant number involving male victims as stigma persists and is amplified by the prevailing macho culture. This underscores the importance of advocating for mental health to help eradicate the stigma associated with gender stereotypes.
In light of the various challenges faced in the realm of mental health, Ducas took the opportunity to incorporate an in-depth discussion of Republic Act No. 11036—commonly known as the Philippine Mental Health Act—into his presentation. He emphasized the significance of this national legislation in promoting the integration of mental health services within the country’s broader healthcare framework. This integration ensures, if properly implemented, that individuals suffering from mental health issues can access a comprehensive range of care tailored to their needs.
Levy Lloyd Oracles elaborated on several key implementations that the Act has facilitated, all aimed at fostering mental health awareness and enhancing access to vital services. Mental Health Advocates pushed for enacting a city ordinance that aligns with the Mental Health Law. The ordinance guarantees free mental health services accessible to all citizens, school-based mental health programs to support students’ psychological well-being, and workplace mental health initiatives to create healthier work environments. Additionally, it established mental health helplines that offer immediate support and guidance and emergency response protocols that ensure timely intervention for those in crisis. Collectively, these services are designed to promote mental well-being across all segments of the community, ultimately working towards a more supportive and understanding environment for individuals with mental health conditions.
A panel representing the youth, women, and differently-abled individuals forwarded the situation on the ground. They emphasized the importance of addressing these fundamental challenges to improve overall well-being. They encouraged collaboration across different sectors to ensure a sustainable, supportive system where everyone in the community can access mental health resources without barriers. They also highlighted the need to ensure that people’s basic needs are met as the first step in promoting sound mental health. In response to the situation, various organizations showcased their initiatives and innovations, expanding the services available to the public. Among these is an online mental health hub initiated by Team Aywan, a group of youth and students. This innovation compiled references on mental health and helplines available on one website.
The activity fostered a committed network of mental health providers, advocates, and support groups dedicated to community care. Key outcomes included strengthening the Baguio City Mental Health Council, which now integrates representatives from government, NGOs, educational institutions, and religious groups to coordinate city-wide mental health initiatives. Collaborative efforts resulted in free or low-cost medication, a streamlined referral system, and community-based mental health programs to support residents locally. Youth-led initiatives, such as online platforms for mental health resources, are vital in raising awareness and making help accessible. This expanded network reduces stigma, normalizes mental health conversations, and promotes a supportive environment.