Senator Villar calls for Senate probe into mental health crisis

Senator Camille Villar on Wednesday said she has filed a resolution urging the Senate to investigate the country’s growing mental health challenges, stressing the need to strengthen existing laws and make care more accessible to all Filipinos.

Villar proposed Senate Resolution No. 99 to call for an inquiry in aid of legislation.

The resolution aims to bring together relevant government agencies to identify gaps in mental health programs, expand affordable and community-based services, and promote a comprehensive, whole-of-society approach to prevention, awareness, and recovery.

Citing government data, Villar noted that nearly 2,000 Filipinos died by suicide in the first half of 2025, while 3.6 million are living with mental, neurological, or substance use disorders. She said these figures underscore the urgent need for coordinated national action.

“Mental health is no longer an invisible issue; it is a silent crisis that demands a national response,” Villar said.

“We must ensure that mental health care becomes accessible, responsive, and fully integrated into our public health system,” she added.

While landmark measures such as the Mental Health Act of 2018 and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act have provided important safeguards, Villar emphasized that weak implementation and resource gaps continue to limit their impact.

Villar, a longtime advocate for health and social welfare, also filed the Comprehensive Mental Health Benefit Act (SBN 328), which seeks to expand PhilHealth coverage for psychiatric and psychological services.

“This inquiry will help us identify what still needs to be done so that every Filipino, regardless of income or background, can get the help and healing they deserve,” she said.

Villar reaffirmed her commitment to working with the Department of Health, PhilHealth, and other sectors in crafting responsive reforms and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.