With mental health concerns dubbed as "silent epidemic" in the Philippines for more than 70 percent of persons between 13 to 26 years old, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has batted for the swift passage into law of Senate Bill No. 2598.
SB 2598, entitled "State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Mental Health Services Act," proposes the setting up of mental health offices in state universities and colleges nationwide.
In batting for the early passage of SB 2598, the CHR cited reports from the Philippine Mental Health Association Inc. (PMHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), which stated that the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues within the 13 to 26 age group underscores the critical need for accessible and effective mental health services in educational institutions.
In this light, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has strongly advocated for the passage of Senate Bill 2598, also known as the "State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Mental Health Services Act," which proposes the establishment of Mental Health Offices in state universities and colleges throughout the Philippines.
SB 2598 was submitted by the Committees on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education; Health and Demography; and Finance, along with Senators Jose Pimentel “Jinggoy” Ejercito Jr., Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Christopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go, Manuel “Lito” M. Lapid, and Juan Edgardo "Sonny" M. Angara, now Senate President Francis Joseph “Chiz” G. Escudero. It seeks to required SUCs to provide comprehensive mental health services.
The CHR said the services envisioned in SB 2598 are intended to address the emotional, behavioral, and psychosocial issues of students, faculty, and staff. In doing so, the bill will help foster an environment conducive to educational and intellectual growth, it said.
At the same time, SB 2598 seeks the hiring and training of mental health professionals to ensure that interventions and treatments are provided by qualified individuals. It also proposes the establishment of a 24/7 campus hotline, the initiation of mental health awareness campaigns, and the development of a rapid-response system for suicide and other critical situations, the CHR said.
CHR Chairperson Richared P. Palpal-latoc said: "The CHR recognizes that mental health is a fundamental human right. Therefore, we will continue to advocate for initiatives that reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental help."
Palpal-latoc has called on both the Senate and the House of Representatives to collaborate and expedite the passage of this crucial legislation.
He stressed: "The establishment of Mental Health Offices in SUCs is a vital step towards ensuring the mental well-being of students, faculty, and staff, thereby contributing to a healthier and more productive educational environment. The CHR believes that with swift legislative action, the nation can better support its youth and foster a culture of mental health awareness and support."