THE Commission on Human Rights expressed support for the passage of Senate Bill 2598 which proposes the establishment of mental health offices in state universities and colleges throughout the country.Also known as the 'State Universities and Colleges Mental Health Services Act,' HB 2598 was submitted by the Committees on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education; Health and Demography; and Finance, along with Senators Jose Pimentel 'Jinggoy' Ejercito Jr.
CHR also cited Republic Act 11036, or the Mental Health Act, and Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights of the United Nations that every individual has the basic right to attain the highest standard of mental health, which HB 2598 reinforces.Recognizing that mental health is a fundamental human right, CHR Chairman Richard Palpal-latoc said, 'We will continue to advocate for initiatives that reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental help.