Council passes resolution urging psychosocial focal persons in all barangays

DURING the 10th regular session of the 21st City Council, Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez authored and secured the passage of a resolution urging all barangays in Cagayan de Oro to designate at least two psychosocial focal persons to strengthen mental health awareness and promote overall well-being in the city.

Rodriguez explained that the measure was introduced in response to the alarming rise in suicide-related cases this year, as reported by the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) – Psychosocial Unit.

“We need to bring mental health support closer to the people. By assigning psychosocial focal persons in every barangay, we can ensure faster crisis response, stronger coordination with CSWD, and easier access to services for our residents,” he said.

He further emphasized the importance of community-based interventions, noting that mental health is not just a personal issue but a collective concern.

The approved resolution reinforces existing laws and policies, including Presidential Proclamation No. 452 declaring the second week of October as National Mental Health Week; City Ordinance No. 15070-2025, institutionalizing the Barangay Mental Well-Being Corner and City Ordinance No. 14297-2022, or the Cagayan de Oro Mental Health Code—both principally authored by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez. (JDO/SP)