Northern samar: Northern Samar's provincial government has institutionalized community-based mental health services through a newly enacted ordinance to expand access to affordable, high-quality mental healthcare for residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ordinance was approved on the third and final reading by the provincial board. It seeks to promote and protect the rights of persons with mental health needs, including the right to confidentiality and to access appropriate healthcare services. The measure includes provisions for outpatient consultations, counseling, community-based interventions, psychotropic medicines, referral systems, awareness campaigns, and crisis helplines.

The provincial government noted that the policy integrates preventive, curative, and rehabilitative mental health services across all levels of care, from the provincial government down to municipal and barangay health systems. To oversee the implementation, the ordinance establishes the Northern Samar Mental Health Council (NSMHC), which will serve as the province's coordinating and monitoring body for mental health programs and policies.

Governor Harris Ongchuan will chair the council, with Vice Governor Clarence Dato serving as co-chairperson and Provincial Health Officer Aurora Dubongco as vice chairperson. The NSMHC is tasked with collaborating with local government units, national agencies, institutions, and private partners to implement mental health initiatives across the province.

Additionally, the ordinance establishes Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services Committees and Peer Support Groups to bolster the mental well-being of sectors such as youth, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups. The legislation aims to establish a community-based mental health care system and strengthen interagency collaboration to reduce stigma and improve access to services.