Mental Health Act Explainer
According to the World Health Organization, more than 400 million people around the world have a mental health issue that causes a significant impact on their lives. In the Philippines, we already have high rates of depression even before the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why the passing of the Mental Health Act in 2018 was a huge step in addressing mental health concerns. This explainer shares important points that you need to know about the Mental Health Act.
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Directory for Mental Health Services - Expanding access to resources for children with autism
Autism affects an estimated 1 in 127 people worldwide, yet the Philippines has no national prevalence data of its own. The Ateneo Autism Study Group (AASG), under ASMPH's Center for Research and Innovation, is working to change that: developing screening tools for children, youth, and adults with autism as the foundation for a future nationwide prevalence study funded by DOST. Access to care is part of the same problem. To help families navigate it, AASG has built a directory of therapy centers, professionals, and educational resources for children with autism across Metro Manila, Iloilo City, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro. Professionals and service providers are invited to join the effort by adding their services to the list.
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Strengthening Community Mental Health: mhGAP Training in Albay
From July 2 to 4, 2025, frontline health workers in Albay completed intensive mhGAP training under the Ka-ginhawa Project, a partnership initiative supported by the Australian Government, CBM Global Disability Inclusion, and the Balik Kalipay Center for Psychosocial Response. The three-day program equipped local providers with essential skills to assess and manage mental health conditions while strengthening referral networks across the province.