09/10/2025
Naga observes World Mental Health to promote mental health awareness
In celebration of World Mental Health Month this October, the city government of Naga is rolling out its Emotional Wellness Month program aimed at raising public awareness on the importance of mental health and promoting the overall wellbeing of its citizens.
In her resolution, which was adopted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday, Oct. 7, City Councilor Gilda Gayle Abonal-Gomez enjoined the city government employees to participate in the Emotional Wellness Month in celebration of the World Mental Health Month as the city’s current administration believes that an effective employee wellness program, which is being implemented under the Angat Kahimate, promotes not only physical health but also mental and emotional resilience, which are crucial in maintaining a motivated and engaged workers.
Mayor Leni Robredo emphasized that mental health remains a top priority for her administration, citing it as the third most pressing concern under her leadership. The city’s observance focuses on guidance counselling and mental health consultations, activities that have been conducted for the past three years in partnership with the Angat Buhay Foundation.
“We must not see the problem on health in its physical aspect alone as we have to consider also the mental aspect,” Robredo stressed. She added that medical professionals have long affirmed the connection between mental health issues and physical illnesses, underscoring the need for a more holistic approach to health care.
The mayor believes that prevention is key to addressing the rising cases of su***de, particularly among the youth. “By raising awareness on mental health and promoting the overall wellbeing of the Nagueños, we are addressing the problem through preventive measures, rather than waiting for it to escalate,” she said.
Robredo expressed optimism that mental health is now gaining the recognition and priority it deserves. “I am happy that in these times, concerns about mental health are being acknowledged. This is a good development,” she noted.
Despite the city’s efforts, Robredo admitted that Naga’s overall health performance still falls short in some areas. According to the Department of Health (DOH) scorecard, the city is underperforming in key indicators such as child immunization, maternal health, and tuberculosis control.
“We need to reorient our thinking about health. It’s not just about having a general hospital. "We need to acquire more efficient facilities, hire more skilled medical staff, and increase our supply of medicines.
In response, the city government is working to establish and operationalize primary health centers within the city. Specifically, efforts are ongoing to fully operationalize the Super Health Center in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, pending the completion of certain requirements from the DOH.
With the Emotional Wellness Month campaign, Mayor Robredo hopes to spark a broader conversation around mental health as an essential part of community wellbeing, aligning with Naga’s ongoing efforts to improve its healthcare system in both mental and physical aspects. I via Jason B. Neola
