CSC MC 04-2020

Memorandum Circular on Mental Health Program in the Public Sector

  • Agency: Civil Service Commission (CSC) of the Philippines

  • Subject: Implementation of Mental Health Program (MHP) in public sector agencies

  • Legal Mandates:

    • Pursuant to Republic Act No. 11036 (Mental Health Act) and its Implementing Rules

    • CSC tasked with developing guidelines for mental health programs to reduce stigma and improve workplaces.

Objectives of the Guidelines

  • Promote overall mental wellness in government agencies

  • Create supportive work environments for public servants

  • Key Objectives:

    1. Strengthen leadership and governance for mental health

    2. Develop effective mental health programs tailored to employee needs

    3. Protect the rights of employees with mental health conditions

    4. Integrate mental health care into health services and human resource processes

    5. Promote mental health strategies in workplaces

Scope and Coverage

  • Includes:

    • National Government Agencies (NGAs)

    • Constitutional Bodies

    • Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations (GOCCs)

    • Local Government Units (LGUs)

    • State Universities and Colleges (SUCs)

Mental Health Program Development

  • Agencies must establish their own MHP based on provided model

  • Required Components:

    • Rationale

    • Objectives

    • Coverage

    • Guiding Principles

    • Strategies

    • Implementation Mechanism

    • Roles of Agency Heads and HR Management

    • Communication Plan

    • Monitoring and Evaluation

Funding Sources

  • Agencies to allocate resources in annual budget plans

Implementation Guidelines

  • Effectivity: Guidelines take effect 15 days post-publication

  • Agencies must submit their MHP within six months

  • Responsibilities:

    • Agency Heads ensure integration of mental health policies

    • Human Resource Management Offices manage implementation

    • Employee Organizations assist in development and monitoring

Strategies for Promoting Mental Health

  • Prevention and Education:

    • Mental health wellness activities, supports groups, seminars

    • Awareness campaigns and training for employees

  • Treatment and Recovery:

    • Support systems for employees undergoing treatment

    • Confidentiality of medical information as per Data Privacy Act

  • Sustainability:

    • Mental health initiatives to be part of the Health and Wellness program.

Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Quarterly reports on MHP implementation to be submitted

  • Maintain detailed and confidential employee mental health records.