MAKATI CITY — As the world observes Suicide Prevention Month this September, Makati City continues to promote mental health awareness and reinforce its commitment to protecting every life. The city is encouraging residents to view seeking help as an act of strength while working to address the stigma that often keeps people from asking for support. Through its various services and programs, Makati aims to ensure that residents have access to assistance and are reminded that they do not have to face their struggles alone.
A Network of Support: Emergency Response and Counseling Services
Makati City has established a multi-level support system to address different mental health concerns. Its 24/7 hotline, (168), connects callers to the Makati Command Control and Communication Center (C3), which serves as the city’s primary hotline for emergencies and disaster response. While the service is not a clinical counseling hotline staffed by psychologists or psychiatrists, it provides an essential channel for individuals experiencing urgent and potentially life-threatening psychiatric emergencies. When someone is in immediate physical danger, calling 168 allows local emergency responders to be dispatched to provide necessary medical assistance and help protect the individual. Meanwhile, residents who need emotional support, psychological intervention, or someone to speak with are encouraged to contact specialized mental health services such as the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline and KonsultaMD, a 24/7 telehealth service. These services provide access to trained professionals who can offer appropriate psychological support.
A Continuing Commitment to Mental Health
Makati’s efforts during Suicide Prevention Month form part of a broader and continuing commitment to mental health. Through the Makati Health Department, the city government regularly conducts awareness campaigns, lectures, and community-based activities aimed at improving public understanding of mental health concerns. School-based programs are also included in these initiatives, allowing mental health education and support to reach young people within their communities. By expanding awareness, encouraging conversations, and making support services more accessible, Makati continues to work toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. These efforts reflect the city’s goal of building a more informed, compassionate, and resilient community where mental well-being receives the same importance as physical health.
