Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, reiterated his focus on advancing mental health initiatives in the country during the 95th Founding Anniversary of the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) in Mandaluyong City on Monday, 18 December.

During the event, Go was also joined by Senators Sherwin "Win" Gatchalian and Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, as well as Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos, Sr.

Addressing a diverse audience of healthcare professionals, policymakers, and mental health advocates, Go emphasized the critical need for enhanced mental health services, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the mental well-being of Filipinos.

Go highlighted the staggering effects of the pandemic on mental health. He noted the increase in cases of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, aggravated by the pandemic's social and economic fallout.

"Sa ating pagdiriwang, mahalaga rin na ating kilalanin ang malalim na kahalagahan ng mental health sa ating lipunan. In today's world, we must pay attention not only to physical health but also to mental well-being. The NCMH serves as a guide and sanctuary for those in need of support and understanding in this matter," said Go.

During his visit to NCMH, Go also checked on the operations of the Malasakit Center inside the hospital. As principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, Go stressed that patients and their families can conveniently avail of medical assistance here or in any of the 159 Malasakit Centers operational nationwide.

"Habang nasa NCMH ay binisita rin natin ang Malasakit Center doon at nakipag-usap sa mga kababayan nating nakapila para makakuha ng medical assistance. Sinabi ko sa kanila na huwag silang mahihiyang lumapit dahil para sa kanila talaga ang Malasakit Center, lalo na ang mga mahihirap, hopeless, helpless at walang malalapitan maliban sa pamahalaan," he shared.

Meanwhile, Go's Malasakit Team also conducted a feeding program that day for outpatients and frontliners.

Go then outlined several legislative measures he has championed to address mental health concerns. These measures aim not only to provide necessary support for those suffering from mental health issues but also to destigmatize mental health care in the Philippines.