MANILA, Philippines — Senator Sonny Angara has filed a bill that seeks to amend the Mental Health Act and allow those who have mental illness immediate access to benefits provided for them under existing laws. Angara recognized that especially during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health has become a critical issue for many people who find it difficult to seek help as the country’s healthcare system is overwhelmed. ADVERTISEMENTUnder the Mental Health Act, PhilHealth is required to provide insurance packages to patients affected by mental health conditions and to ensure they have access to the medicines they need. “People with mental health conditions should have access to affordable essential health services, at all levels of the national healthcare system,” the senator noted. “However, while we do have the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), VMMC, and the Mental Health Act in play to help veterans who need support, the unfortunate incident involving Corporal Ragos emphasizes a need to revisit, reexamine, and realign mental health services,” he added.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer May 09, 2020 10:20 UTC