“There must be aggressive information dissemination about, and determined implementation of, the Philippine Mental Health Law in order to prevent senseless deaths, especially those by suicide, lamented Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Winnie Castelo.
Castelo made the reaction in light of the death by suicide of Brian Velasco, drummer of the famous homegrown rock band Razorback, who even livestreamed his death leap via social media.
In June last year, President Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11036 or the Philippine Mental Health Law, bringing high hopes that finally mental health will be incorporated in the general healthcare system of the country.
“The law, of which I am co-author, was designed to address the increasing mental health issues and concerns suffered by our people. Psychotherapeutic services as well as other related or relevant medical services will already be made available in cities, municipalities, and even barangays,” said Castelo, who is running for Councilor in 2019, a post he previously held for four terms, from 1995-20011 and from 2004-2010.
“The law, of which I am co-author, was designed to address the increasing mental health issues and concerns suffered by our people.”
“This law mandates the government to provide funds for mental health problems and directs local government units to establish facilities and provide services in all tertiary hospitals in all provinces,” added Castelo.
“Laws cannot just be words written on paper. They must be implemented efficiently and effectively. Government must do more not just to prevent deaths but, more importantly, to help those with mental health problems live better lives,” said Castelo.
“Laws cannot just be words written on paper. They must be implemented efficiently and effectively.”
