Philippines: Catholic Church Endorses Stage Play to Promote Mental Health Awareness

The Catholic Church in the Philippines has endorsed a stage play aimed at raising awareness about mental health and wellness, hoping to empower individuals and communities to respond with compassion and support.

“We are going through many hidden struggles, and often the victims have no voice. This play is one way of raising awareness and consciousness so that people may help one another and promote mental health and wellness,” said Fr. Andy Peter Lubi, rector of the Sto. Niño Parish Cathedral of the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan.

He was referring to the semi-musical stage production “Seen Zone,” produced by the PUNLA Center for Theater and the Arts.

Directed by Lloyd Cataring, the play highlights issues of depression and mental health awareness. Cataring stressed that the production is more than artistic expression.
“It is a powerful mirror reflecting the silent cries of our youth and a passionate invitation to the entire community to show compassion and get involved,” he said.

Inspired by social-media experiences where messages are merely “seen” without empathetic response, Seen Zone centers on the unheard struggles of young people within families and communities. According to Cataring, the play explores the major roots of depression among today’s youth, including intense academic pressure, family conflict, gender-based violence, bullying, and the lack of safe and trustworthy spaces for self-expression.

A relevant and timely message

Cataring said the production tackles heavy themes such as depression, trauma, bullying, and the need for safe spaces, but with the intention of fostering “understanding, healing, and collective action,” rather than fear.

Monica Franzyrrah Danao, a Grade 10 student at Pola Catholic School, Oriental Mindoro, described the play as “super amazing,” noting that it skillfully used humor while addressing serious issues.
“The play shows that there is hope, there is healing, and there is light when someone truly listens. No one should be left in the dark,” she said.

Cataring shared that his formation as an altar server deeply influenced his approach to theater.
“It was there that I learned discipline, preparation, and respect for ritual, lessons that are also important in theater. Beyond the technical aspects, I learned to quietly observe people, the weight of their prayers, and their need for understanding. These experiences shaped me as a director who prioritizes the heart, the story, and the dignity of every character over mere performance,” he said.

Christine Mhae De Torres, a teacher, expressed appreciation for the play’s focus on real-life concerns, especially those who remain “unseen.” “I hope every school, every municipality, and various organizations will sponsor this production,” she said.

Aubrey Nicole Dacula, a Parents-Teachers Association officer at Holy Infant Academy, Calapan City, called the live performance an “eye-opener.” “It reminds parents that parenting is not only about finances or marital concerns, but about deeply listening to the whispered cries of children,” she said.

Merlito Bonquin, a church worker who portrayed a father in the play, echoed this sentiment.
“Children need our presence, love, and compassion. It’s not only material support that matters, but also emotional care and attention to their mental health,” he said.

Ayyi Gardiola, a community development worker, commended the play for offering parents and communities “concrete and holistic steps” to address mental health concerns.

Not without challenges

Cataring acknowledged that staging the production came with significant challenges.
“One of the biggest difficulties was ensuring the play was sensitive yet brave, accurate yet artistic. Given the weight of the topic, every scene was carefully studied and shaped in consultation with experts,” he said.

He also cited setbacks such as lack of funding, loss of collaborators, and skepticism about whether Seen Zone would ever be staged. “Despite these trials, we experienced the collective compassion of our artists, families, private organizations, schools, local government units, the Church, and mental-health professionals. This is a play we built together, and the Lord provided everything we needed,” he added.

Dr. Michael dela Paz, an officer of the Oriental Mindoro Medical Society, emphasized the value of such initiatives. “More of these should be produced. They bring hope, peace of mind, and help,” he said.

Looking ahead, Cataring said the group aims to conduct more school tours, expand partnerships with Church institutions, and offer workshops for youth and educators. “This play is part of a continuing movement to create safe spaces, promote mental health awareness, and build a compassionate community. Our goal is to reach all of Mindoro, and, if possible, the entire country,” he said.