Amid the alarming rise in suicide cases in Metro Manila, Senator Win Gatchalian is urging the intensified rollout of comprehensive mental health programs to protect vulnerable Filipinos and prevent further loss of life.
Gatchalian’s call follows a report by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), which found that suicide cases in the National Capital Region more than doubled in the first three months of 2026.
The NCRPO recorded 111 cases from January 1 to March 23 this year, almost thrice the 38 cases recorded in the same period in 2025.
According to the NCRPO, it recorded 111 cases from January 1 to March 23 this year, almost thrice the 38 cases recorded in the same period in 2025.
“Mahalagang patatagin natin ang mga programang magtataguyod sa kaligtasan at kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na pagdating sa mental health.”
“Sa gitna ng patuloy na pagdami ng mga kaso ng suicide sa bansa, mahalagang patatagin natin ang mga programang magtataguyod sa kaligtasan at kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na pagdating sa mental health,” the veteran legislator stressed.
“Ngayon higit kailangan ng ating mga kababayan ang suporta sa mental health, lalo na’t hinaharap natin ang matinding krisis na nakakaapekto sa pang-araw araw nating pamumuhay,” the seasoned lawmaker added.
The senator noted that under the 2026 national budget, P742.6 million is allotted for the implementation of the Mental Health Program as mandated under the Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036).
