Tabuk Boosts Community Mental Health Programs as Cases Rise

Lifestyle | On The Radar Posted on 2026-04-28 01:14:58

Trigger warning: mention of suicide

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — The city government is strengthening its community-based mental health care system by expanding services, training responders, and improving access to support amid growing mental health concerns.

Records from the City Health Services Office (CHSO) show that 29 suicide-related cases were recorded in 2025, with 11 resulting in deaths. Among these, 12 involved individuals aged 19 and below, while 17 were aged 20 and above.

Mental Health Coordinator Hilda Adong reported that five cases were recorded in January 2026, highlighting the urgent need to improve prevention and early intervention efforts.

She added that the CHSO recently assisted 53 new mental health patients, with conditions including psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

To strengthen early response at the grassroots level, the city is training nurses, midwives, barangay health workers, police officers, guidance counselors, and members of the religious and education sectors as mental health first aiders.

These trained responders are expected to provide immediate support, identify at-risk individuals, and refer them to appropriate services.

The city government is also working to:

• Establish a local referral and crisis response system
• Enhance social and behavioral change campaigns
• Set up a mental health crisis hotline for faster assistance

City Ordinance No. 12, Series of 2024 institutionalizes a comprehensive mental health care system, focusing on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services.

City Health Officer Dr. Henrietta Bagayao said the Department of Health continues to support mental health initiatives through community-based programs, as well as school and workplace interventions.

Residents are encouraged to seek help from health professionals or trained responders and actively support efforts that promote mental well-being in families and communities.

These initiatives aim to improve early detection, expand access to care, and build a more responsive and supportive mental health system in Tabuk City.

NPO News Team | PIA Philippine Information Agency - PR

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