Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged the government to strengthen mental health programs following a sharp rise in suicide cases in Metro Manila.
The National Capital Region Police Office recorded 111 suicides from January 1 to March 23, 2026, nearly triple the 38 cases reported in the same period last year.
Gatchalian stressed the urgent need for mental health support as citizens face crises affecting daily life.
The 2026 national budget allocates P742.6 million for the Mental Health Program under the Mental Health Act.
Globally, the World Health Organization reports that suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 29-year-olds, highlighting the importance of timely interventions.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 30, 2026
STRONGER MENTAL HEALTH MEASURES URGED AS SUICIDE CASES CLIMB
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