Arbie T. Aspiras

This study evaluated the implementation and operational viability of the LGU Malay Mental Health Ordinance using the seven-component Project EMBRACE framework. The study addressed a local evidence gap by examining not only whether ordinance activities were implemented but also whether the workforce, referral, infrastructure, monitoring, and partnership conditions required for sustained delivery were present. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used. Quantitative data were obtained from 50 program implementers through a validated researcher-developed questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha = 0.962), while qualitative data were collected through Focus Group Discussions with 10 adult mental health service clients from Mainland Malay and Boracay Island. Means and standard deviations summarized five-point viability ratings, and qualitative transcripts were thematically analyzed; the two strands were integrated by comparing convergent, complementary, and divergent findings. The ordinance obtained an overall viable assessment, but component results were uneven. Wellness of Daily Living (M = 3.75), Mental Disorder (M = 3.65), Substance Abuse and Other Forms of Addiction (M = 3.72), and Provision of Services for Mental, Neurologic, and Substance Disorders (M = 3.45) were rated Viable. Extreme Life Experience (M = 3.11), Neurologic Disorders (M = 3.37), and Enhancement of Mental Health Facilities and Partnerships (M = 3.29) were Moderately Viable. Service-user accounts generally supported these patterns and highlighted limited specialist access, psychosocial workforce gaps, dependence on external referrals, and infrastructure constraints. The findings indicate that Malay has established a functional community mental health foundation, but long-term viability requires prioritized investment in crisis-response personnel, neurologic referral capacity, facilities, formal partnerships, continuity-of-care mechanisms, and integrated monitoring.