Project Stigma is on a Mission for Mental Health

“Our goal is to forward a law that will cover mental health needs.”

This was the bold statement of Shari Niña Oliquino, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs of the University of the Philippines (UP) System, during the launch of Project Stigma last July 8, 2025.

Project Stigma is a private-public initiative that increases awareness of mental health by addressing the stigma surrounding it. The project also broadens access to mental health services in communities for earlier detection and intervention. 

During the UP System Mental Health and Well-being Conference 2023, Oliquino discovered that mental health remains one of the top concerns of their students, faculty, and staff. To address this, she led various wellness activities across the UP System. While effective, they soon realized that art workshops, subsidies, and music therapy could only go so far. 

Together with The Platform News, stakeholders, and government agencies, they launched Project Stigma with one goal in mind. 

“What we want ay isang solusyon na pang-matagalan (for mental health) at sustainable para sa ating lahat,” said Oliquino. 

The Assistant Vice President knew where to begin: with each other. “Ang pagtugon sa concern sa mental health should be a whole-of-community and whole-of-government approach. Kapag nagtulungan tayo, we can really make a difference.”

Having more institutions focused on mental health is crucial in convincing people that it’s okay not to be okay. Studies show around 7 to 12.5 million Filipinos—mostly youth—are diagnosed with one form of mental health condition. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) often experience the “six-month depression barrier,” where they develop anxiety and depression in their sixth month overseas. 

While Republic Act (RA) 11036, or the Mental Health Act exists, proper assessment, treatment, and care remain a challenge. The number of mental health facilities and professionals, especially in rural areas, are limited. Getting treatment is expensive and is perceived by the older generations as a sign of weakness, proof that the younger generation is “soft.”

Project Stigma aims to create a movement supported by government agencies, increasing awareness and convincing people with mental health issues that it’s okay not to be okay.

“Launch lang ito. This is just a first step. Mas mahaba, mas marami pa tayongpagsasamahan,” said Oliquino.