Senator Camille Villar has sounded the alarm on the country’s deepening mental health crisis, filing Proposed Senate Resolution No. 99 to prompt a Senate inquiry aimed at strengthening mental health programs and expanding access to care for millions of Filipinos.

Villar, the youngest member of the 20th Congress, emphasized the urgency of a whole-of-society response, citing government data that nearly 2,000 Filipinos died by suicide in the first half of 2025, while 3.6 million are living with mental, neurological, or substance use disorders.

“Mental health is no longer an invisible issue—it is a silent crisis that demands a national response,” Villar said. “We must ensure that mental health care becomes accessible, responsive, and fully integrated into our public health system.”

The resolution calls for a legislative inquiry to convene key agencies, assess gaps in existing programs, and promote community-based and affordable services. Villar also stressed the need to improve implementation of landmark laws such as the Mental Health Act of 2018 and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which she said remain hampered by resource limitations and weak enforcement.

As part of her advocacy, Villar has filed the Comprehensive Mental Health Benefit Act (SBN 328), which seeks to expand PhilHealth coverage for psychiatric and psychological services, making treatment more affordable for Filipinos across income levels.

“This inquiry will help us identify what still needs to be done so that every Filipino, regardless of income or background, can get the help and healing they deserve,” she added.

Villar reaffirmed her commitment to work with the Department of Health, PhilHealth, and civil society groups to craft responsive reforms and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.