This department’s origins are tied up with the earliest beginnings of Southern Philippines Medical Center. By order of the Department of Health in 1958, the Davao Regional and Medical Center was relocated and established at its present compound in JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City. The old Davao General Hospital built in 1918 was then transformed into a medical ward.

In 1980 the medical ward became independently known as the Davao Mental Hospital. Shortly in 1986 its hospital administration and services were placed under the authority of Davao Medical Center, until presently. On par with the global need to address mental health and the rapid developments in technology and neurosciences, the institution yearned to make Davao Mental Hospital as the leading mental health center in Mindanao. Such was the primary target of the alumni and consultants of DMH Dept. of Psychiatry, who later on established the Davao Medical Association of Psychiatrist.

By 2006, Davao Mental Hospital started working with professional groups of local city-based architects and engineers of various fields. The transformation of Davao Medical Center into Southern Philippines Medical Center has also enabled the Davao Mental Hospital to deliberate ways of fulfilling an integrated regional mental health plan and program.

Thus virtually achieving its goals, and renaming it into the brainchild Institute of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science.

Its residency training program in Psychiatry was first accredited in 1992, uniquely being the first medical institution of its kind outside of Metro Manila. Among its key subspecialties include Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. In addition, this department caters to 26 nursing schools in Mindanao for related nursing experience in Psychiatry.

Vision

A premier center for mental health in Mindanao.

Mission

A dynamic and sustainable government hospital facility that delivers quality mental health services through holistic and efficient management patient care.