Manila - The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS), in collaboration with the Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC), successfully organized the forum on “Mental Health at Work: Exploring Compensability of Work-related Mental Health Conditions.” on 12 August 2024, at The Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila.

The forum focused on topics related to mental health, including the manifestations of work-related mental health conditions, strategies to prevent them, promoting mental well-being in the workplace, and discussing compensation and support mechanisms for both employees and employers.

In her opening remarks, ECC Executive Director Kaima Via B. Velasquez highlighted the importance of mental health dialogue in the workplace.  “Despite its significance, mental health continues to be overlooked and underserved. We face challenges such as inadequate resources, limited access to care, and persistent stigma. However, we also witness growing awareness, increasing advocacy, and a collective determination to prioritize mental health”, Executive Director Velasquez emphasized.

Resource speakers from the Occupational Safety and Health Center, International Labour Organization, University of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment – Legal Service, and Philippine Mental Health Association discussed and underscored the importance of national policies and programs in promoting mental health and preventing discrimination against mental health conditions in the workplace.

The forum also initiated discussions on the feasibility of compensation under current legal and policy regulations such as the RA 11036 or the Mental Health Act, RA 11058 or the Occupational Safety and Health Law, as well as the issuance of DOLE Department Order 208, series of 2020 or the Guidelines for the Implementation of Mental Health Workplace Policies and Programs for the Private Sector and DOLE Labor Advisory No. 19, series of 2023 as supplementary guidelines.

ILS Senior Labor and Employment Officer Franchesca Rose S. Castillo presented the preliminary findings of an ILS study titled “Mental Health at Work: Determinants of a Safe and Healthy Workplace,” further fueling the discussions.

Following the presentations, participants engaged in a workshop activity, formulating strategic actions to prevent, protect, and promote mental health in the workplace. They also shared recommendations on the compensability of mental health issues in work environments.

In her closing remarks, ILS Executive Director Jeanette T. Damo expressed her gratitude to the ECC and all resource speakers. “Today’s gathering highlighted the need for collaboration between government, experts, workers, employers, and the broader community. My heartfelt thanks go to the ECC for not only providing resources but also for championing this vital cause to ensure every worker’s right to a healthy workplace.”, Executive Director Damo added.

ILS remains committed to promoting workers’ welfare and the protection of mental health in the workplace. For more information about the Institute’s studies on mental health, please visit the ILS website at https://ils.dole.gov.ph.

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