Aksyon Demokratiko vice presidential bet Dr. Willie Ong on Thursday suggested that the government must invest in providing more green spaces, as this would help boost one’s mental health.

“Kailangang-kailangan natin ng open green open spaces para sa mental health ng mga kababayan natin (We really need open green spaces for the mental health of our countrymen),” he said in a statement.

Ong, a cardiologist, noted that studies show green spaces help in improving mental health, as well as in boosting life satisfaction.

This is also the reason why doctors suggested to open the parks despite the pandemic, he added.

Ong, running mate of presidential candidate Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, said there is a 2018 study that says the mental health of residents of Philadelphia has improved when their open spaces were turned into green spaces.

He urged the government to build open spaces like skateboard and bike parks and running tracks to encourage these modes of relaxation and also to promote better mobility.

The country’s urban centers need to meet the recommended ratio of green space per inhabitant, Ong said.

“Tayo sa Metro Manila, meron lang tayong approximately five square meters of green open space per inhabitant. ‘Yung World Health Organization nine square meters ang recommended (Metro Manila has an approximate five square meters of green open space per inhabitant. The World Health Organization recommends nine square meters),” he said.

Ong said having green open spaces would not just brighten up the urban areas, but would also encourage people to engage in social activities.

During the Aksyon Demokratiko’s proclamation rally on February 8, Ong said mental health would be among his priorities.

He said he wants to ensure there are psychiatrists, and that the government would provide affordable medicines for mental health. (PNA)