Mental Health, Philippine National Police, Policy framework, Burnout, Secondary traumatic stress 

This study was conducted in response to the increasing and alarming number of mental health problems among police officers. Over time, the stressful nature of police work may threaten the well-being of a police officer. And mental health is vital as they continue to address the public safety, crime prevention and suspension; and even as front-liners when a pandemic occurs like COVID-19. Thus, this study was created with the hope that the findings may be integrated as basis for policy and program development to promote mental health in police institutions and among police officers. The Descriptive research design, qualitative approach was used in this research. employing the purposive sampling technique, a total of three (3) female police participants assigned in responding and handling cases on violence against women and children (VAWC) joined this study. Data gathering too used was key informant interview and all gathered data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings of the study showed that the mental health issues and problems experienced among the participants are burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Burnout happens when there is high job demand, unbalanced case workload, and the absence of support and supervision while secondary traumatic stress exist as a result of exposure to people who have experienced extremely or traumatic stressful events. Further these mental health issues and problems were addressed through stress debriefing and physical health seminars of which are found not to be enough. In addition, it was identified that may police personnel are unaware of the mental health policies and programs provided by the PNP among its personnel. Considering these, the overall findings of the study provided an evidence-based comprehensive framework that showed principles and guidelines for a mental health policy and program for the PNP. This policy framework includes assessment on the overall psychosocial functioning of PNP Personnel, training and development programs on VAWC and other trauma cases; having flexible work schedule and balance case load; and the conduct of regular debriefing. lastly recommendations for future research were also highlighted.