The Department of Health–Metro Manila Center for Mental Health Development (DOH-MMCHD) announced it is offering free medications for selected mental health conditions.
Valproic acid (250 mg/5 ml, 120 ml bottle) is available at the DOH-MMCHD unit as of December 2025.
The agency reminded the public that the medicine may be claimed only by individuals with an updated prescription.
Patients must email a copy of their prescription to mapmhmmchd@gmail.com and await confirmation before claiming the medicine.
In a Facebook post, the DOH-MMCHD encouraged the public to “take care of your mind” by accessing the available mental health medicines.
The agency also warned against unhealthy habits such as overeating, drinking alcohol, and smoking or vaping in public places.
DOH-MMCHD Regional Director Lester Tan urged the public to practice discipline and avoid vices during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Tan said the holidays should be centered on safety, compassion, and responsible behavior rather than excess and indulgence.
Data from the DOH-MMCHD Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Section showed high rates of lifestyle-related conditions in Metro Manila in late 2024.
The report recorded 50,502 adults assessed with hypertension, 16,279 with Type 2 diabetes, 110,613 with obesity, 37,936 binge drinkers, and 25,577 smokers.
