LUNA, Apayao – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Apayao approved on Tuesday, January 16, the Municipal Ordinance No.5 series of 2023, “An Ordinance Providing for a Mental Health program and delivery system,” of the municipality of Kabugao.
After careful deliberation of the august body, it declared that said ordinance is valid and consistent with existing laws, rules and regulations of the Philippine Constitution, hence its approval.
“Whereas, upon proper and careful review and perusal through study and scrutiny over the contents and provisions of said Municipal Ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Rules, Privileges ,Laws and committee on Health, and most especially, upon proper deliberation made by this body, the subject Municipal Ordinance of Kabugao, Apayao, is found to have been consistent with existing laws, rules and regulations namely: a) RA No. 11036, otherwise known as ‘The Mental Health Act, and b) section 15 Article II of the 1987 Philippine Constitution,” the SP stated.
Through this declaration, the municipality’s programs on mental health services are now institutionally ready to be implemented.
The ordinance provides a platform for the delivery of comprehensive and mental health care in the municipality, addressing possible substantial gaps on mental health services. It also seeks to establish a variety of measures and interventions for mental health promotion, prevention, treatment and support delivery services.
This enactment has been considered by the Apayao SP as being aligned with the government’s commitment to promoting the well-being of the people by ensuring that mental health is valued, promoted and protected, and that mental health conditions can be prevented and treated in a timely, affordable, high-quality, and culturally appropriate way. By J. Dela Torre
