Television host and weather anchor Kim Atienza, popularly known as Kuya Kim, called for compassion and understanding after Senator Robin Padilla described today’s youth as “weak” during a Senate hearing on the proposed Children’s Safety in Social Media Act on 11 February. 

Padilla said that in his generation, depression was not a term commonly used, adding that young people today are more prone to saying they are depressed. “Ang mga bata po ngayon, sad to say, ’wag kayo magagalit sakin… pasensya na kayo, you are weak. Hindi kayo katulad noong panahon namin na hindi kami iyakin. Natuto kami sa kalsada. Natuto kami na ’wag umupo, [’wag] umiyak. Noong panahon namin hindi uso ’yung salitang depression. Hindi ko nga alam ’yon eh, kung ano ’yung depression. Ngayon, batang maliit sasabihin, ‘I’m depressed,’” the senator said, drawing swift reactions online.

Responding to the remarks, Atienza emphasized the importance of empathy, saying “A little kindness (and understanding) goes a long way.” 

While acknowledging that perspectives on mental health may differ across generations, he stressed that support should always be accessible to those who need it. He said, “While views may differ on how depression is understood across generations, one thing is clear: support should always be available. That's why we've put together a list of 24/7 crisis hotlines, because whether or not the word was used before, the need for help is real for many today.”

Atienza’s advocacy is deeply personal. His daughter, Emman Atienza, had long been open about her battle with depression before she later passed away, a loss that the broadcaster has spoken about with honesty and grief.