Councilor Rodriguez seeks action to address gaps in CSWD psychosocial unit

COUNCILOR Jonjon Rodriguez III, chairperson of the social services committee, has called for a committee meeting to review the status of the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) Psychosocial Unit, hear its concerns directly, and identify possible measures the City Council can take to improve its services.

In his special report during the 5^th regular session, Councilor Rodriguez shared observations from his recent visit to the unit, outlining several issues such as the lack of personnel, an unsuitable facility for counseling, unstable internet connection, and insufficient equipment for the 24/7 mental health helpline.

He also raised safety concerns over the center’s location, noting that it sits on a bridge overlooking the river without protective railings — a setup he described as unsafe for service users.

The proposed committee meeting seeks to address these gaps and ensure that the city’s mental health services are accessible, effective, and secure, particularly in light of the continuing cases of suicide in Cagayan de Oro. (JDO/SP/Photo by JRGalano)