By: Patricia Francia Lachica

Quezon City 5th District Representative Patrick Michael Vargas sought immediate compensation benefits to entitled mental health service users under Republic Act 11036 or the Mental Health Act, in time of National Mental Health Week.

House Bill 2789, filed by Vargas, seeks to amend RA 11036 by introducing a new provision on the Rights of Service Users that mandates the immediate release of benefits and financial aid should mental health service users endure "temporary or permanent mental disability while in the performance of duty."

"Filipino workers are hardworking and resilient. Every blood, sweat, and tears they pour into a day's work must be compensated with sufficient safeguards to protect their mental health and well-being," said Rep. Vargas. 

The bill also highlights the struggles of Filipino workers and the risks that come with work-related stress, which according to experts, can lead to several mental health problems.

Citing the Department of Health (DOH), at least 3.6 million Filipinos in 2021 face mental health issues amid the pandemic, including depression, substance use disorders such as alcohol, and mood disorders. 

"Four years after the Mental Health Act was enacted into law, we hope to continue to strengthen our mental health services to be responsive to the needs of the times," he added.

About 1.14 million Filipinos have depression, 847,000 are battling alcohol-use disorders, and 520,000 others were diagnosed with bipolar disorder, according to DOH's Disease Prevention and Control Bureau.

The lawmaker also noted that access to mental health services remains limited due to economic constraints. 

"As we seek to increase the budget for mental health services, we must continue to strive to deliver immediate and accessible mental health services for every Filipino," ended Vargas.