BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corp., said it teamed up with the Paglaum Mental Health Support Group and Philippine Accessible Disability Services (PADS) Inc. to launch a community-based mental health campaign in the Philippines.
The initiative aims to address the lack of accessible and stigma-free mental healthcare in grassroots communities, despite the country’s Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036).
The Department of Health (DOH) reports that 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from mental, neurological, or substance-use disorders. However, access to services remains scarce, with fewer than one mental health worker per 100,000 people. In Cebu, the Barangay Behavioral Health Unit in Lahug has seen a surge in cases of anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
BingoPlus Foundation rolled out a two-part training program for community health workers, teachers and village leaders. The training covers foundational knowledge on mental health, psychosocial support, and practical skills such as psychological first aid, active listening and referral pathways. It also includes culturally sensitive approaches to encourage early help-seeking.
Participants in a focus group discussion said the training gave them tools they could use immediately. “As a village health worker, I now feel more confident talking to residents about their struggles,” said Analisa Patindol, a health worker from Barangay Tingub. “Before, I didn’t know what to say. Now I know how to listen and guide them to the right support.”
The foundation said it would also launch a village-level awareness caravan designed to reach up to 100 residents per session. These sessions will focus on well-being, family dynamics, and breaking stigma.
“Mental health is often overlooked in grassroots communities, yet the need is urgent,” said Angela Camins-Wieneke, executive director of the BingoPlus Foundation.
“By equipping local health workers and educators with the right tools, we are helping communities become more compassionate and resilient,” she said.
Cebu and General Santos City were chosen as pilot sites due to high demand for grassroots mental health interventions, based on case monitoring by partner organizations. The foundation plans to expand its training caravans to Metro Manila and other regions.
The foundation said it aims to build the first line of mental health response in families, schools, and villages.
