Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate students’ access to behavioral, psychological, and psychiatric care. The ceremonial signing marks a step toward strengthening mental health support within the academic community.
Through the agreement, MakatiMed will facilitate access to mental health services through its Mind Wellness & Holistic Care Center at the WellnessHub. These services include mental health assessments and therapy, as well as referrals to the Hospital’s Neuropsychiatry Department for further specialized evaluation and care, when needed.
MakatiMed will implement a streamlined referral system designed to simplify the process for DLS-CSB and help students receive professional care in a timely manner. Once a student is referred, MakatiMed will manage the care coordination process, including appointment scheduling and follow-through. Referred students will also be prioritized for scheduling whenever possible, supporting timely assessment, appropriate intervention, and continuity of care.
For DLS-CSB, the partnership provides an opportunity to further strengthen its support for student well-being. El Anelio R. Barnachea, RGC, DLS-CSB’s Benilde Well-Being Center’s Director, shared the College’s perspective on the partnership: ” While our Benilde Well-Being Center provides primary counseling, and initial support, this timely collaboration [with MakatiMed] bridges the gap between campus care and immediate specialized professional intervention. Ultimately, it strengthens our holistic safety net, giving our community the reassurance that comprehensive medical and mental health support is readily accessible when needed most.”
The initiative reflects MakatiMed’s commitment to accessible, patient-centered mental health services, and its role in supporting individuals through different stages of life. By providing a coordinated pathway to professional care, the Hospital aims to help students access the support they need to navigate personal and academic challenges.
The collaboration also underscores the importance of integrating mental health care into student support systems, helping foster an environment where well-being is recognized as an essential part of student development.
