Time to erase stigma of mental illness – Palace

M alacañang is hopeful that the signing of the Mental Health Act will negate the discrimination and stigma attached to people with mental health conditions.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement after it was reported that Duterte signed on Wednesday the law which affirms the basic rights of all Filipinos to mental health services.

In a statement, Roque said the passage of the law recognizes mental disorders as illness which can be diagnosed and treated.

“We hope this policy will help neutralize the stigma attached to mental illness,” Roque said.

According to the Palace official, the signing of the Mental Health Act proves President Duterte’s commitment to provide accessible and affordable related services to Filipinos.

“We consider the signing of Republic Act No. 11036, otherwise known as the ‘Mental Health Act,’ as a testament of the President’s commitment to provide accessible and affordable mental health care and services to all Filipinos,” Roque said.

“It forms part of the government’s mandate to design and implement a national mental health program and integrate this as part of the health information system, among others,” he added.

Roque also said that implementing a universal mental healthcare system in the Philippines would provide more awareness regarding mental health among Filipinos.

The Act enhances the delivery of integrated mental health services, and the promotion and protection of the rights of persons utilizing psychiatric, neurologic, and psychosocial health services, by appropriating funds.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III lauded the President’s signing of the law, which underscores the basic right of all Filipinos to mental health care.

The development comes amid rising cases of depression leading to suicide, which was said to be the cause of the untimely loss of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and American designer Kate Spade.

“The DOH thanks President Duterte for signing the law and all members of both Houses of Congress for facilitating the whole process, and the mental health professional groups who labored tirelessly for decades to have this law passed,” said Duque.