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Legal Safeguards and Systemic Mechanisms for Mental Health in the Philippines and Their Comparison to Other Countries

Khadiguia Ontok-Balah(1),


(1) University of Southern Mindanao
Corresponding Author

Abstract


This study examines the legal safeguards and systemic mechanisms established under the Philippine Mental Health Act of 2018, or Republic Act No. 11036. Using a qualitative-descriptive design, the study analyzes secondary sources from legislation, government documents, academic literature, and international health reports. The findings show that the Act protects key rights, including freedom from discrimination, informed consent, protection from mistreatment, voluntary treatment, access to care, and rehabilitation. It also institutionalizes mechanisms such as suicide prevention programs, 24/7 hotlines, public awareness campaigns, ethical facility standards, and oversight by the Philippine Council for Mental Health. Despite progress, challenges remain in funding, workforce distribution, cultural adaptation, and data monitoring.

Keywords


Access to care; Legal safeguards; Mental health; Philippines; Republic Act No. 11036; Systemic mechanisms.

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