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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Camille Villar seeks Senate inquiry into growing mental health crisis in the Philippines

Camille Villar seeks Senate inquiry into growing mental health crisis in the Philippines

Published Oct 30, 2025 10:58 am

At A Glance

  • Senator Camille Villar has filed a resolution seeking a Senate probe into the country's worsening mental health situation, emphasizing the need to strengthen the implementation of existing laws and make care more accessible to Filipinos in need.
Senator Camille Villar has filed a resolution seeking a Senate probe into the country’s worsening mental health situation, emphasizing the need to strengthen the implementation of existing laws and make care more accessible to Filipinos in need.
(Photo from OS Camille Villar)
(Photo from OS Camille Villar)
Through Proposed Senate Resolution No. 99, Villar, Villar called for an inquiry in aid of legislation to convene all concerned agencies and assess the gaps in mental health programs, expand affordable and community-based services, and promote a 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 living with mental, neurological, or substance use disorders. She said these numbers reflect 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.”
While landmark measures such as the Mental Health Act of 2018 and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act have established important safeguards, Villar stressed that weak implementation and resource gaps continue to hinder their full impact.
The senator has also filed the Comprehensive Mental Health Benefit Act (SBN 328) 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 added.
Villar reiterated her commitment to work with the Department of Health, PhilHealth, and other sectors in crafting responsive reforms and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.

Related Tags

Camille Villar mental health Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth)
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