By CESAR JOLITO III
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is taking a proactive step to address the growing mental health concerns in the community with the passage of a resolution urging the immediate establishment of a 24/7 mental health and crisis hotline for Bacolodnons.
The measure calls on the City Health Office to set up and operate the round-the-clock hotline aimed at providing timely psychological support and emergency response.
Councilor Caesar Distrito said the initiative aligns with the provisions of Republic Act No. 11036, or the Mental Health Act, which guarantees every Filipino access to quality mental health care and obliges local government units to establish community-based services, including 24/7 crisis hotlines.
“Over the past years, cases involving depression, anxiety, self-harm, and domestic violence have been steadily rising,” Distrito said.
“Our constituents deserve immediate access to professional help that can prevent escalation and potentially save lives,” he added.
Once operational, the hotline will offer psychological first aid, risk assessment for suicide and violence, immediate counseling, and emergency referrals to hospitals and partner agencies.
Trained and licensed mental health professionals will man the hotline, which will be directly connected to Bacolod 911, the City Social Services and Development Office, hospitals and educational institutions to ensure quick coordination and follow-up care.
Councilor Celia Flor emphasized the importance of accessibility and timeliness in mental health interventions.
“Timely intervention saves lives,” she said.
“Having a dedicated hotline ensures that when someone reaches out in their darkest moment, there is a professional ready to listen and respond,” she added.
The resolution also directs the city to conduct a comprehensive public information campaign so residents are aware of the hotline number and the services available.
Distrito added that mental health support should be treated as an essential public service.
“With compassion, readiness and the right system, we can prevent crises and offer hope to individuals and families in distress,” he said./CJ, WDJ