“It forms part of the government’s mandate to design and implement a national mental health program.”

The government is now required to protect not only the physical but also mental health of Filipinos under Republic Act 11036 or the Philippine Mental Health Law that President Rodrigo Duterte signed the other day.

The law aims to enhance the delivery of integrated mental health services in the country.

The new law will also promote and protect the rights of persons using psychiatric, neurologic and psychosocial health services.

Under the new law, the government should come up with effective leadership and governance for mental health; and should establish a comprehensive and efficient national mental health care system.

The government is also required to strengthen information systems, evidence and research for mental health; integrate mental health care in basic health services; and integrate strategies in educational institutions, workplaces and communities.

Since it will be integrated into basic health services, the mental health care law should also provide PhilHealth coverage for confinement, checkups and medicines, and special rooms for mental health patients.

The law provides that mental health care services should be available not only in Metro Manila and major cities but “every local government unit (LGU) and academic institutions” based on the needs of the population.

The Department of Health (DOH), along with the Philippine Council for Mental Health (PCMH), is tasked to guide the establishment and assist the operation of mental health care facilities throughout the country.

Section 21 of the law stated that mental health services shall include mechanisms “for suicide intervention, prevention and response strategies with particular attention to the concerns of the youth.”

It added that hotlines should be provided to assist individuals with mental health conditions, especially those at risk of committing suicide.

The PCMH will be established as a policy-making, planning, coordinating and advisory body attached to the DOH to ensure the proper implementation of the law.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the signing of “Mental Health Act” is a testament to the Duterte administration’s commitment to provide accessible and affordable mental health care and services to all Filipinos.

“It forms part of the government’s mandate to design and implement a national mental health program and integrate this as part of the health information system, among others,” Roque said in a press statement.

“Implementing a universal mental healthcare system in the country would provide more awareness regarding mental health among Filipinos, especially given the rising number of suicide cases among the youth,” he added.