SENATOR Christopher Bong Go has raised concern over the growing shortage of mental health professionals in the country, warning that many Filipino youth are being left without adequate care amid rising mental health challenges.

Go emphasized the urgent need to address gaps in the availability of trained guidance counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, particularly in schools.

“Without proper support systems, many young Filipinos are left to deal with anxiety, depression, and emotional stress on their own,” he said.

As chairperson of the committee, the senator called for stronger state support for youth development, including increased investments in education, sports, and mental health programs. He also cautioned against the misuse or underutilization of public funds, noting that this creates a significant gap in addressing the needs of the country’s young population.

Go reiterated his long-standing view that the youth are the nation’s future, stressing that their success depends on the foundation and support provided to them today.

He highlighted education as a key pillar, citing Republic Act No. 10931, signed under former President Rodrigo Duterte, which provides free college education in state universities and colleges.

The senator also pointed to his proposed Senate Bill No. 1894, which seeks to expand access to tertiary education by granting subsidies to indigent students in private institutions when public options are unavailable.

In addition, Go underscored the importance of sports development, noting that investments in athletics can help steer youth away from illegal drugs and other harmful activities. He cited Republic Act No. 11470, an initiative he co-authored with Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.

A significant portion of the hearing focused on mental health and suicide prevention, with Go citing data from the Department of Education showing that 404 public school learners died by suicide in 2021, while 2,147 attempted to take their own lives.

“These figures highlight that mental health is just as important as physical health and must be addressed with urgency,” he said.

Go also acknowledged gaps in the implementation of Republic Act No. 11036, principally sponsored by Senator Risa Hontiveros.

He cited ongoing legislative efforts aimed at addressing youth suicide, including Senate Bill No. 258 by Senator Mark Villar and Senate Bill No. 1948 by Senator JV Ejercito, which propose measures such as life planning education and the hiring of psychologists in schools.

Go also highlighted his role in co-authoring Republic Act No. 12080, which promotes mental health and well-being in basic education and mandates the establishment of care centers in public schools. He added that he has filed Senate Bill No. 176, which seeks to create Mental Health Offices in all state universities and colleges.

The senator stressed that schools must serve as safe spaces for students, free from bullying and online harassment—factors he identified as major contributors to mental distress.