Bacolod City Council seeks 24/7 mental health crisis hotline

1 of 2

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Amid the growing incidence of mental health concerns in the city, the Bacolod City Council has called for the immediate establishment of a 24/7 mental health and crisis hotline to ensure residents have continuous access to psychological support and emergency intervention.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod unanimously approved a resolution authored by Councilor Atty. Caesar Z. Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Celia Flor, urging the City Health Office, through the Office of Mayor Greg Gasataya, to immediately establish and operate the hotline for Bacolodnons.

Councilor Distrito on Monday emphasized that the initiative reinforces the mandate of Republic Act 11036, or the Mental Health Act, which guarantees every Filipino the right to timely, affordable, and accessible mental health care.

The law also requires local government units to develop community-based mental health programs, including round-the-clock crisis intervention services.

“Over the past years, cases involving depression, anxiety, self-harm, and domestic violence have been steadily rising,” Distrito said.

“Our constituents deserve immediate access to professional help that can prevent escalation and potentially save lives,” he added.

Once established, the 24/7 hotline will provide psychological first aid, risk assessment for suicide and violence, immediate counseling, and emergency referral to hospitals and support agencies.

The hotline will be staffed by trained and licensed mental health practitioners and linked directly to Bacolod 911, the City Social Services and Development Office, hospitals, schools, and other relevant agencies to ensure rapid coordination, referral, and aftercare.

Councilor Flor said, “Timely intervention saves lives. Having a dedicated hotline ensures that when someone reaches out in their darkest moment, there is a professional ready to listen and respond.”

The resolution also calls for a strong and sustained public information campaign to ensure that every household is aware of the hotline number and the services it offers.

“With compassion, readiness, and the right system, we can prevent crises and offer hope to individuals and families in distress,” Distrito said.