In a time when mental health struggles are becoming more visible and urgent, one city in the Davao Region is quietly leading the way in accessible and compassionate care.
Did you know that Tagum City offers free mental health support to children, youth, and families who need it the most?
Nestled within Purok Tipaz, Brgy. Magugpo East—inside the PAMANA Boys Care Center—is the Atiman Center for Children, Youth, and Families at Risk. Also known as the CARE Center, it offers vital, no-cost mental health services to residents battling a wide range of mental health conditions. The program runs from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing much-needed relief for families who may otherwise have limited access to professional help.
A Lifeline for the Vulnerable
The CARE Center provides assessment, intervention, and referral services for individuals experiencing:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Mood Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders including:
- Intellectual Disability
- Global Developmental Delay
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Specific Learning Disorders
These are conditions that often go undiagnosed or untreated due to stigma, financial constraints, or lack of awareness. For struggling families, the CARE Center is more than just a clinic—it is a lifeline.
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This mental health initiative is the brainchild of Councilor-elect Ciara Uy-Salazar, whose advocacy for holistic community wellness has been evident in her service and public engagements. Her vision for the Atiman Center is rooted in compassion, early intervention, and inclusivity.
“We cannot talk about community development without talking about mental wellness,” Uy-Salazar emphasized in one of her statements. “Atiman is not just about care; it’s about empathy and action for those who often suffer in silence.”
Why Free Mental Health Support Matters
The importance of accessible mental health services cannot be overstated. Mental health issues among children and adolescents are rising nationwide. According to recent health data, many young people are grappling with conditions that impact their ability to learn, socialize, and thrive. Without proper intervention, these conditions can persist into adulthood, leading to more complex issues.
But access to mental health care remains a luxury for many Filipino families. The Atiman Center addresses this gap by removing financial barriers and bringing services directly to those most at risk.
Building a Community That Heals Together
The existence of the Atiman Center is not just a win for public health—it’s a step toward building a more compassionate and resilient Tagum. The city government’s commitment to mental health signals a broader recognition that wellness is not just physical but emotional, social, and psychological.
As Tagumenyos, we are all stakeholders in this effort. Whether by helping raise awareness, referring someone in need, or advocating for continued support and expansion of such programs, we each have a role to play.
The CARE Center is more than a facility—it is a reflection of what it means to truly take care of each other.
Visit the Atiman CARE Center
📍 Purok Tipaz, Brgy. Magugpo East, inside PAMANA Boys Care Center
🕗 Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Let’s continue to support initiatives that prioritize mental health and uplift every Tagumenyo, especially those at risk. Because in a city that cares, no one should be left behind.