Psy 20 Group Project

POST DISASTER MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES in CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

1. Scope of Mental Health Services

The health sector in Cagayan de Oro City is governed by established strategies and policies that
guide the prioritization and implementation of recovery and reconstruction programs to hasten
the rehabilitation of both public and private health care systems. Most notable of these policies
are Executive Order No. 102, “Institutionalization of the Health Emergency Management Staff
(HEMS);” Administrative Order No. 168 s.2004, “National Policy on Health Emergency and
Disasters,” which defines the rules of engagement, procedures, coordination and sharing of
resources and responsibilities, to include the varying levels of state of preparedness and the
desired response to emergencies and disasters in the health sector; and Administrative Order
No. 2007-0009, “Operational Framework for the Sustainable Establishment of a Mental Health
Program” which highlights the goals of the National Mental Health Program and objectives for
the four priority subprograms, namely: Wellness in daily living, Extreme life experience, such as
disaster, epidemic, trauma, that threatens personal equilibrium, substance abuse and other
forms of addiction, and mental disorder.

2. Disaster Response

Republic Act No. 10121 defines Disaster Response as:

Disaster Response – the provision of emergency services and public assistance during or
immediately after a disaster in order to save lives, reduce health impacts, ensure public safety
and meet the basic subsistence needs of the people affected. Disaster response is
predominantly focused on immediate and short-term needs and is sometimes called “disaster
relief.”

This aspect will likewise include Early Recovery which means, under Implementing Rules and
Regulations Rule 2 Section 1:

Early Recovery – multidimensional process of recovery that begins in a humanitarian setting. It

is guided by development principles that seek to build on humanitarian programs and catalyze
sustainable development opportunities. It aims to generate self-sustaining, nationally-owned,
resilient processes for post crisis recovery. It encompasses the restoration of basic services,
livelihoods, governance, security and rule of law, environment and social dimensions, including
reintegration of displaced populations.

The long term goal is to provide life preservation and meet the basic subsistence needs of
affected population based on acceptable standards during or immediately after a disaster.

Its objectives include:

 To decrease the number of preventable deaths and injuries.

 To provide basic subsistence needs of affected population.
 To immediately restore basic social services.

To achieve these objectives, the Cagayan de Oro City Disaster and Risk Reduction Management
(CDDRM) Plan identified the following outcomes:

Well-established disaster response and operations

This is a very crucial phase as it entails effective and efficient coordination, communication and
an integrated response management from the Chief Executive, Incident Command personnel
down to the community based response teams. Accurate data and figures are supplied to the
Operations Center (OpCen) and authorized representative from the local government will
circulate this to the public. Government vehicles such as fire trucks, ambulance units, and PNP
vehicles and response groups’ vehicles and rafts are deployed to all vulnerable areas. Warning
signals are raised and pre-emptive and forced evacuations are ordered by the Chief Executive,
followed through by the barangay captains, and followed by the residents.

In addition, a management system should be in place for relief supplies and distribution with
strict observance to protocols. A mechanism should be in place for accepting cash and
donations or in kind from private institutions and individuals, NGOs, and INGOs, where receipt
acknowledgement is required.

Key activities include:

 Observance of protocols in disaster response.

 Activation of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Incident Command Center.
 Activation of command center for relief distribution.
 Standard protocol followed for the procurement, packaging, transportation, storage and
distribution of relief items.
 Deployment of government vehicles to vulnerable areas for transport services.
 Pre-emptive mechanisms in place for evacuation.
 Dissemination of warning signals to common people i.e. loud speaker/megaphones,
roving of government vehicles to the different barangays, sirens, among others.
 Issuances of public advisories (easily understandable to a common i.e. local language.
  Submission of situation reports in a timely manner (by the hour, day, and week).

Integrated and coordinated Search, Rescue and Retrieval operations (SRR)

This calls for the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit of Kagay-anons, where unity and effort of the government
and ordinary citizens triumphs. Accredited volunteers and response organizations are mobilized
during these critical times.

The process of identification and handling the dead bodies to the next kin/relatives should
follow. Religious and cultural beliefs of disposing the dead bodies should be paid with highest
respect and honour.

Key activities include:

 Deployment of search and rescue teams.

 Deployment of medical and para-medical teams.
 Management of the dead to be turned over to respective families.

Adequate and prompt needs and damages assessment

Information at this point is vital in diagnosing the effects of disaster. A speedy, accurate and
time-bounded needs and damages analysis report would be the basis for the city government,
NGOs, INGOs and private sectors’ interventions. They make assessment based on ocular survey,
spot visits, and information coming from primary and secondary sources. As United Nations
(UN) puts it, the Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (DANA) methodology would capture
the closest approximation of damage and needs due to disaster events.

Key activities include:

 Deployment of the DANA team.

 Conduct rapid damage and needs assessment.

Installed adequate emergency temporary shelters

Temporary shelters provide refuge for displaced survivors of both human induced and
environmental disasters. These may be in the form of tents provided by international
humanitarian agencies as seen and experienced during TS Sendong. To maintain the safety and
security of those living in these spaces, Camp Coordination and Management should be
efficient as it aims to improve the living conditions of IDPs so that basic needs and services are
met and addressed and they can live with dignity.

Key activities include:

 Provision of adequate shelters such as tents and bunkhouses equipped with facilities.
 Efficient Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM).
  Provision of livelihood opportunities.
 Management of logistical needs.
 Intensification of policy visibility and security groups.
 Establishment of Help Desks.
 Ensured protection and safety of IDPs in evacuation centers.
 Profiling of evacuees/IDPs

During Tropical Storm Sendong, there were a number of reported cases of harassment, conflict
and theft among evacuees in temporary shelters. To ensure security, police visibility and
intensification are needed to minimize conflict.

To uplift the socio-economic conditions of these refugees, income generating activities should
also be provided such as cash or food for work program as reflected after Tropical Storm
Sendong.

Provided basic physical, medical social, psychological and mental health services

Physical, medical, social, psychological and mental health services are important to look into in
the aftermath of disasters.

The local government should be ready and equipped to provide adequate relief assistance to
the affected population i.e. illnesses and diseases checked and treated, safe food, drinking
water, shelter, and clothing and stress debriefing sessions. Immediate care and attention is
needed for these displaced persons so that they can regain their spirit, dignity and start the
healing process.

According to UNICEF, increasing equitable access to the use of safe water, nutrition, basic
sanitation services and improved hygiene practices will reduce child mortality, improve health
and education outcomes, and contribute to reduced poverty and sustainable development as a
whole.

Key Activities

 Provision of adequate and safe food to affected populace.

 Medical consultation and treatments and nutritional needs assessment i.e. malnutrition
deficiency.
 Procurement and distribution of medicines.
 Deployment of mobile clinics, medical and para-medical personnel.
 Conduct Psychosocial and mental stress debriefings for men, women and children.
 Arrangement and provision of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services.

Human-induced and natural disasters can be overwhelming and shocking to survivors and often
than not, this will cause trauma. Those who have survived may feel helpless, without roof over
their heads, food, clothing and shelter. Hence, mental and psychological health is as equally
important as food and shelter itself.

In relief operations, food and non-food items should be distributed in a responsive, transparent
and equitable manner. Partner NGOs, INGOs, CSOs and private sectors should be involved in
supplementing the needs of the local government.

According to UNICEF, increasing equitable access to the use of safe water, nutrition, basic
sanitation services and improved hygiene practices will reduce child mortality, improve health
and education outcomes, and contribute to reduced poverty and sustainable development as a
whole.

Ensured continuity of education

Article XIV of the Philippine Constitution declares that, “The State shall protect and promote
the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to make
such education accessible to all.” In times of disasters, public schools provide immediate safety
and shelter to those displaced by disasters. Temporary Learning Sites or Alternative Learning
Venues are created to ensure that the right to education is not hampered and still enjoyed by
children amidst disaster. This may be in the form of tents, makeshift classrooms, covered
courts, gyms, barangay hall, social action centers and other safe spaces.

Key Activities

 Creation of spaces for Temporary Learning Sites (TLS).

 Conduct information sessions and values formations in evacuations centers.

Immediate restoration of key infrastructure and lifeline facilities

Restoring basic lifelines such as roads, bridges, telecommunication and transportation helps in
accelerating the recovery of the affected populace. People will have access to basic services
such as food, water and shelter if lifeline facilities are restored.

Key Activities

 Debris cleaning.
 Restoration of various infrastructural facilities i.e. electricity, drinking water,
telecommunication, and major roads.
 Mobilization and utilization of volunteers, CSOs, public and private institutions.
 Deployment of heavy equipment and tools.

Management of information and media

At this point, dissemination of accurate, reliable and timely information is crucial. People
heavily rely on radio, televisions, internet and print for news. Regular press briefings from the
local government and authorized representative need to be conducted so source/information
management can be achieved.

Key Activities

 Observance of protocol i.e. dissemination of information.

 Authorized representative lead the press briefing/s.
 Provided accurate reports/statements.

3. Staff Mental Health Services

Cagayan De Oro City has its own Psychosocial Division (CSWD Psychosocial Division) which is
currently headed by Jaymee Q. Leonen, PHD CAND., RPSY. Their services includes
Psychoeducation, Assessment, Therapy and Counseling. Mainly gives attention to individuals or
group whom are financially unstable that seeks any psychological services. Other Psychiatrists
that are available to offer their services are as follows:

 Dr. Jose Coruña, Jr.

o Northern Mindanao Medical Center

Capitol Rd., Cagayan De Oro City, 9000
Misamis Oriental

o House of Hope Foundation

Cathedral Compound, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000
Misamis Oriental

 Dr. Benson Go.

o Capitol University Medical Center

Gusa Highway., Cagayan De Oro City, 9000
Misamis Oriental
-
 Dr. Dorris Ann Inihao

o Northern Mindanao Medical Center

Capitol Rd., Cagayan De Oro City, 9000
 Misamis Oriental

 Dr. Maria Nena Peñaranda

o Madonna and Child Hospital

J. Meriña St., Cagayan De Oro City, 9000
Misamis Oriental

4. DMH Administrative Procedures

Cagayan De Oro’s City Government led by Psychosocial Division of City Social Welfare and
Development, contains a hotline that is freely accessible by any individual with mental health
issues/problems. On the report of Jaymee Leonen, City Psychosocial Divison Head, that the
hotline that prioritizes Mental help is an inter-agency cooperation that aims to aid individual
with mental health issues in Cagayan De Oro City through the response of their 91 Rescue
Service. In-line with this, The Psychosocial Division also provides these services namely,
Psychoeducation, Psychotherapy, Counseling, and assessment to children in-line for their
Special Education Programs conducted in schools.

Currently, in these trying times, According to Dr. Ian Gonzales, Medical officer at the
department of Health in Region 10 (DOH-10), stated that the DOH have established its own
mental health intervention hotline “DoH Normin Kumusta Ka” made to aid individuals who are
in dire situations caused by today’s health crisis. In addition, Dr. Gonzales further said, “the
hotline is operated by the mental health cluster of the local Covid-19 Inter-Agency task force,
led by non-communicable diseases cluster head, Dr. Tristan Jediah Labitad. DOH-10’s “Kumusta
Ka” hotline interventions are as stated: 09973590888 and/or 09650556777, and 09658356888
(PNA).

5. Responsibilities During Disaster

While not explicitly stated, during these times of the pandemic CDO Mental Helpline has been
providing mental health care services to people in need. Especially now with the current
situation of the CDOC, people need help adjusting both physically and mentally to get through
these trying times. CDO Mental Helpline has been providing several articles on their websites
giving advice and support for people struggling from their problems during the pandemic,
especially due to the state people are forced to live in which is in quarantine. They have
provided such support such as parenting advice and how to deal with their children. They also
provide online questionnaires to assess one’s mental status. They are also available for contact
in times when people require assistance with their mental status and well-being.
Another would be the CDRMM (City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management) and the
CDRMM Plan which they developed for disaster operations within the city. While not focused
primarily on mental health alone, some of the mental welfare services that are provided include
the preparation and planning for disaster scenarios and how to properly manage them, rescue
operations, and risk preparedness are among their primary responsibilities. With focus on the
psychological and mental health services, among the provided services are the following:

 Provision of safe food, water, sanitation services

 Mobile clinics and medical personnel
 Psychosocial and mental stress debriefings for men, women, and children

These are part of CDRMM’s goal of providing basic physical, medical, social, psychological and
medical health services. The CDRMM Plan recognizes the equal importance of mental
healthcare and the physical needs of the affected populace. Other elements include
rehabilitation services, and post disaster recovery, to ensure that the affected populace is able
to restore their normal levels of functionality and rebuild their livelihood.

6. Responsibilities During Disaster

CDO Mental Healthline is not necessarily a disaster management organization, they have simply
provided mental health care during these times of pandemic and have made themselves
available for consultations during these trying times. We will focus more on the CDRMM as they
are mainly focused on providing disaster management, rehabilitation, and the basic needs for
the victims of calamities. Most of the responsibilities of CDRMM involve post disaster responses
such as rescue operations, providing the basic needs of the affected populace such as shelter,
safe food and water, and psychological and mental debriefing.

During disaster response operations, CDRMM consists of search and rescue teams, medical and
para-medical teams, and mobile clinics capable of providing basic physical and psychological
needs. According to the CDRMM plan, partner NGO’s, INGO’s, and CSO’s should also be
involved to support the needs of the local government. After which people are then provided
rehabilitation services in order to fulfill the following objectives stated in the CDRMM plan:

 To restore people’s means of livelihood and continuity of economic activities and

business.
 To restore shelter and other buildings/installation.
 To reconstruct infrastructure and other public utilities.
 To assist in the physical and psychological rehabilitation of persons who suffered
from the effects of disaster
 The following process in the CDRMM plan focuses on rebuilding the lives of the affected
populace in order for them to recover from the effects of the disaster, and does not provide
further information on mental health processes, as they are likely left to the local
organizations within CDOC for the rest of the psychological and mental needs of the
population.

References:

CDRR Plan (2013-2017). Retrieved from:

https://carbonn.org/uploads/tx_carbonndata/CDRRM%20Plan-CDO.pdf

CDO Mental Helpline. CDO Mental Helpline. Retrieved July 17, 2020, from
http://cdomentalhelpline.cagayandeoro.gov.ph:8080/your-therapist

Maandig, E. (2020, May 2). Mental Health also important during pandemic: health
officials. Philippine News Agency. Retrieved from: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101684

Sablad, J. A. (2019, May 2). Cagayan De Oro Hotline for Mental Health Problems. SunStar
Philippines. Retrieved from: https://www.sunstar.com.ph/ampArticle/1803803

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. (n.d.). Retrieved from:
http://ndrrmc.gov.ph/2-uncategorised/1547-implementing-rules-and-regulation-of-republic-
act-no-10121