The study utilized a cross-sectional descriptive research with case study to determine the mental health illness and traumatic experiences of Special Action Forces (SAF) who were deployed in the recent Marawi battle. It specifically identified the types of mental illness such as Somatoform Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Other Depressive Disorder, Panic Syndrome, Other Anxiety Disorder, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Alcohol Abuse and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and described the traumatic experiences of SAF deployed in the Marawi battle identified with the most number of mental illnesses. Respondents included were 66 SAF members assigned at Mercedez, Zamboanga City. During intervention, survey and PRIME-MD and PCL-M questionnaires were given. Analysis was done and respondents with identified mental illness were interviewed. Two weeks after, mental health assessment letter were given to all respondents revealing the identified mental illness and a referral letter. Results showed that there were 35PNP soldiers identified with mental illness. Most common mental illness was Alcohol Abuse (20%), followed by Major Depressive Disorder (18%), then Somatoform Disorder (14%), Panic Syndrome (10%), then Binge Eating (9%) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (7%). Among the SAF members identified with mental disorders, the most common trait was witnessed injury or death of comrade. Thirteen (13) out of 35 or 37% have psychiatric comorbidities. Nine (9) soldiers were interviewed and showed that 100% of them witnessed injury of a comrade and 66% was able to witness the death of a colleague. Due to this factor, interviewed soldiers became more vigilant because of fear of death; had difficulty sleeping and increased their intake of alcohol. Other factors also include family obligations and stress. Most common coping mechanism was bonding with the troops. It also showed that 100% was aware of the risks of being a soldier. And 44% chose to continue their service due to high pay.

Keyword: Mental health profile Special action forces deployed in the recent Marawi battle