Parañaque 2nd District Rep. Brian Yamsuan has filed House Bill 7354 seeking to establish mental health offices in all state universities and colleges (SUCs) to address rising cases of anxiety, depression, and suicide risks among Filipino students.
The proposed measure mandates each SUC to create a Mental Health Office staffed with trained counselors, hotlines, and programs focused on suicide prevention, stress management, and psychological support.
Yamsuan said the initiative fills a gap in mental health services at the tertiary level, noting that existing government programs mainly focus on basic education students despite similar vulnerabilities in college.
Citing data from a University of the Philippines Population Institute survey, he warned of increasing suicidal thoughts among Filipino youth and urged immediate legislative action.
If passed, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) will oversee implementation alongside other agencies to ensure nationwide mental health support systems in higher education institutions.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 20, 2026
