In 2023, we helped evaluate Adolescent-Friendly Health Facilities in several provinces across the Philippines. This was not a routine audit. The goal was to understand how well these spaces were meeting the needs of young people, especially after years of pandemic-related disruptions.

Where Things Are Working

We visited Level I, II, and III facilities and spoke with adolescents, parents, health providers, and local leaders. We also reviewed service data to see what had changed. The good news stood out.

More adolescents were visiting. Many facilities had started integrating mental health and reproductive health services. Some introduced school-based programs like “Peermustahan,” where students gather in familiar spaces to talk, check in on each other, and access basic mental health support. These simple efforts helped create comfort and trust.

Several adolescents told us they finally had a place where they felt welcome to talk about their concerns. In Level III facilities, service use rose from 8.5 percent to 18.5 percent. This kind of growth happens when services are built to meet people where they are.

What Still Needs Attention

Some adolescents still saw these facilities as general clinics. Many were not aware that they offered dedicated services for mental health, sexual health, and other personal concerns. The information was available, but it had not always reached the right people.

We recommended increasing visibility through community campaigns, improving privacy in consultations, continuing staff training focused on adolescent needs, and keeping facility design aligned with the Department of Health’s standards for youth-friendly care.

Why This Matters

This evaluation showed more than numbers. It showed how much it matters to listen to the people who use the services. When adolescents feel respected, they return. When they see that a space is meant for them, they begin to open up.

These insights offer a clear path forward. Build on what is working. Stay close to the realities of adolescents. And keep improving the ways we support their health and well-being.

If you would like to read the full report, get in touch. We would be glad to share what we learned.