ANGELES CITY — Pampanga 1st District Rep. Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. filed on Feb. 25 House Bill No. 8084 seeking the establishment of 24/7 mental health hotlines in all provinces, cities, and municipalities in the country.
To be accessible 24 hours a day, and seven days a week, the hotlines shall be managed by trained responders designated by the LGU, including but not limited to social workers, registered guidance counselors, and qualified mental health personnel.
“Mental health issues are a growing public health concern that affects individuals regardless of age, environment, social status, race, and gender,” Lazatin said.
Pursuant to HB 8084, the LGU shall initiate the establishment and operation of the hotline through the local social welfare and development office and the local health office.
The LGU shall also coordinate with local hospitals, health facilities, and educational institutions to establish and implement referral pathways for crisis intervention, emergency response, follow-through, and continuity of care, including appropriate handoff procedures.
HB 8084 also mandates the establishment of mental health hotlines in coordination with local universities and colleges, so that free and immediate assistance may be provided and accessed by those who need it.
“Suicide is a serious public health concern that needs attention with the increasing cases, especially among the youth,” Lazatin said.
During Academic Year 2021-2022, at the height of the pandemic, the Department of Education reported that a total of 404 students in various parts of the country took their own lives, while 2,147 made attempts.
In May 2019, the National Center for Mental Health launched a crisis hotline to provide 24-hour counselling for individuals who are at risk of suicide and those with mental health conditions.
From Dec. 21, 2025 to Jan. 2, 2026 alone, the Department of Health Mental Health Hotline at the NCMH recorded 961 calls.
According to Lazatin, there is a need to augment the mental health resources in the country to cater to more individuals suffering from mental health issues.
“Now is the time for the government to make significant strides in mental health investments,” Lazatin said.
Lazatin has long advocated for mental health policies and programs.
During his time as Angeles City mayor, the LGU regularly conducted rescue missions of mentally-challenged individuals found roaming the streets and sent them to partner institutions for rehabilitation – all funded by the City Government.
Once they are cleared by the institution, the individuals are reunited with their families, who are also given counseling on the proper care of their mentally-challenged family members.
By January 2025, five months before Lazatin stepped down as city mayor, the Angeles LGU has funded the rehabilitation of 208 mentally-challenged individuals, 109 of whom have been discharged following their treatment. Team Lazatin Media
