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During a meeting at Malacañang Palace on Monday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requested Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to dispatch Filipino mental health workers to Ukraine to support the mental well-being of their soldiers amid the long-standing conflict with Russia.

President Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for mental health professionals to assist Ukrainian soldiers and defenders facing immense psychological strain.

"We need psychological and mental health support, especially for our army. Many soldiers need help when they return; they struggle to reintegrate with their families and resume their studies," Zelenskyy was quoted as saying during the meeting by the Presidential Communications Office.

President Marcos responded positively to Zelenskyy's request, indicating the Philippines' willingness to assist by sending Filipino mental health workers to Ukraine.

"This is something we are capable of offering," Marcos assured, highlighting the Philippines' reputation for providing exceptional healthcare services. He reiterated the country's commitment to peacekeeping efforts in alignment with the United Nations.

"I am happy to do all that we can to ensure the welfare of civilians and innocents affected by the war. This support comes naturally to the Philippines, and we are prepared to pursue it," Marcos added.

President Zelenskyy arrived in Manila on Sunday evening for a one-day working visit after attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. He was welcomed at Malacañang Palace on Monday morning for his meeting with President Marcos.

The diplomatic relationship between the Philippines and Ukraine, established on April 7, 1992, has spanned 32 years. In 2022, Ukraine was the Philippines' 90th trading partner, with a total trade value of USD 16.9 million. This included exports valued at USD 1.49 million and imports at USD 15.41 million.

The Ukrainian crisis has significantly reduced the number of Filipinos residing in Ukraine, from nearly 200 to 25, primarily those married to Ukrainians, as many chose to stay with their families amid the ongoing war with Russia.

As both nations seek to strengthen their diplomatic ties, the Philippines' support in providing mental health services shows its commitment to humanitarian aid and international solidarity amid the ongoing war.