Pinagpala Publishing Services - FROM POLICY MANDATE TO LOCAL PRACTICE: BUILDING MENTAL HEALTH READINESS AMO

World Education Connect Multidisciplinary e-Publication, Vol. VI, Issue VI (June 2026), pp.513-522

FROM POLICY MANDATE TO LOCAL PRACTICE: BUILDING MENTAL HEALTH READINESS AMONG BARANGAY OFFICIALS THROUGH UNIVERSITY–GOVERNMENT EXTENSION MODEL

Authors

Abigail Z. Tarayao, Adeline M. De Guzman, Mitus D. Puguon

Faculty Members

Nueva Vizcaya State University

Abstract

The localisation of mental health governance in the Philippines requires barangay institutions to translate national policy mandates into practical community–based initiatives. At the barangay level, officials often serve as first responders to psychosocial concerns yet may have limited preparation for addressing mental health issues within governance and community support systems. This paper examines a capacity–building intervention named ‘Mental Aid’ designed to strengthen mental health readiness among barangay officials in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. The program engaged local officials through structured learning sessions on mental health awareness, psychosocial self–care, and community–based crisis response, emphasising the role of local governance in promoting community well–being.

Distinct from conventional training initiatives, the intervention emphasised action planning and post–activity monitoring, requiring each barangay to formulate a localised mental health activity or program proposal and integrate it into its Development Plan and Annual Budget. This approach reinforced accountability and institutional commitment to implementation. Evaluations indicated high satisfaction (M=4.25) among participants, reflecting enhanced awareness and practical skills for addressing mental health issues at the community level. The findings suggest that linking mental health capacity–building with local planning mechanisms can strengthen the institutional readiness of barangay governments to support inclusive and responsive community governance. The study highlights the role of innovative university–government partnerships in advancing inclusive and responsive local governance.

Keywords: mental health governance; barangay planning; policy implementation; community–based intervention; university–government partnership