Cebu City is pushing to institutionalize a comprehensive mental health program for students, with plans to establish a permanent Mental Health Council (MHC). The initiative includes creating school-based intervention manuals, strengthening parental involvement, and integrating practical mental health education into schools.
Consultative Meeting Yields Key Agreements
Councilor Michelle Abella Celona, chairperson of the Cebu City Council's Committee on Health, said the proposals were developed and agreed upon during a consultative meeting on July 2, 2026, attended by mental health experts and advocates. The meeting focused on strengthening school safety and improving students' psychological well-being.
Among the key agreements was the creation of the MHC, which mental health stakeholders aim to finalize during a strategic planning workshop scheduled for July.
Legislative Action to Ensure Sustainability
Aside from the proposed programs, the Cebu City Council is working on a measure to institutionalize the MHC through a local ordinance. Celona emphasized that making the council permanent would ensure mental health programs continue regardless of changes in city leadership.
“We were also talking about the legislative side. We will institutionalize the Mental Health Council so that no matter who sits as leader, it will be sustained,” she said.
Citywide Database to Guide Policies
One of the recommended initiatives is the establishment of a comprehensive database that will assess the mental health needs of students across the city. According to Celona, this data will serve as the foundation for future policies and intervention programs.
