Mandaluyong city: The Department of Health (DOH) has inaugurated a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine and the Forensic Psychiatry Building at the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) in Mandaluyong City, strengthening the country's commitment to Universal Health Care.

According to Philippines News Agency, the agency reported that Secretary Ted Herbosa led the inauguration on Wednesday. The newly installed MRI machine and upgraded facilities are expected to serve more than 200 patients in need of advanced psychiatric treatment.

This milestone aims to provide Filipinos with greater access to modern diagnostic tools and specialized mental health services within a government hospital setting, the DOH said.

The initiative follows the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to prioritize the improvement of facilities and services dedicated to mental health, recognizing the growing need for comprehensive and accessible care for Filipinos.

The DOH added the project underscores the government's push to integrate mental health care as a vital component of the country's health system, ensuring that treatment goes beyond medication and counseling by including advanced technology and specialized infrastructure.