QUEZON CITY, Philippines (23 March 2026) – The Institute for Labor Studies, through Senior Labor and Employment Officer Ms. Franchesca Rose S. Castillo, presented its study on mental health in the workplace at the 5th Public Health Convention for Mental Health of the Department of Health (DOH) on 19 March 2026 at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria.

With the theme, “Empowering Minds and Strengthening Commitments Towards Ginhawa ng Isip at Damdamin,” the Convention gathered legislators, national government agencies, local government units, health institutions, academe, civil society, and professional organizations to advance inclusive and responsive mental health care in the Philippines.

In her presentation, Ms. Castillo highlighted key findings on workers’ mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger workplace policies, accessible services, and stigma-free environments that support both well-being and labor productivity.

“Mental health is a concern for everyone,” Ms. Castillo said. “Support through evidence-based policies is essential to create safe and healthy workplaces that protect and promote the well-being of Filipino workers. This is a cornerstone of decent work.”

“The study reinforces that mental health is not merely an individual concern, but part of a structural labor issue shaped by working conditions, employment security, and access to protection. Strengthening mental health policy and programs contributes to an inclusive and sustainable labor market development in the Philippines because a safe and healthy workplace is not only a condition of decent work but also a commitment to advance social justice for the Filipino workforce,” she noted.

The Convention aims to foster healthier communities through multi-sectoral action, emphasizing timely, affordable, and culturally appropriate care while ensuring that mental health services remain rights-based.

The published research titled Mental Health at Work: Determinants of a Safe and Healthy Workplace was writte by Ms. Castillo with co-researchers Mr. Diether B. Navarosa and Mr. Marcos S. Ursua.

The full research is available online at https://ils.dole.gov.ph/2024-research-papers/mental-health-at-work-determinants-of-a-safe-and-healthy-workplace. /DBN

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