BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio City Council approved on second reading a proposed ordinance that would require business establishments, government offices and public facilities to display mental health and substance abuse hotline numbers in prominent areas.

Introduced by Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr., the measure applies to a broad range of properties, including shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, schools, call centers, transport terminals, barangay halls and public parks.

Under the proposed legislation, covered properties must install at least two signages in areas where individuals might seek privacy or experience distress.

Designated display zones include entrances to restrooms, fitting rooms, stairwells, fire exits, roof decks, lobbies and elevators. Employers would also be required to post the information in staff break rooms and on employee bulletin boards.

The City Health Services Office (CHSO) and the Business Permits and Licensing Office will provide standardized signage templates.

Business owners must submit photographic proof of the posted signages when applying for or renewing their Mayor’s Business Permit. Non-compliant businesses will receive a 30-day notice, after which permit renewals may be withheld.

The measure comes amid a sharp increase in self-harm incidents, with CHSO data recording 47 deaths by suicide in 2025, up from 24 cases in 2024.