In collaboration with the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association-Eastern Visayas (PGCA-EV) and UNILAB Foundation, Eastern Visayas State University Ormoc Campus held a Gatekeepers’ Training titled Race Against Suicide on October 30, 2024 at EVSU-OC Function Hall.
Spearheaded by Dr. Charlene C. Pita, EVSU Ormoc Guidance Designate, along with the Peer Facilitators Circle (PFC), the training brought together student leaders, department heads, and faculty members for an in-depth exploration of mental health challenges, including the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.
The event formally started with an opening remarks from Dr. Beatrice D. Mabitad, Head of the Teachers Education Department, followed by the statement of purpose by Dr. Charlene C. Pita, Guidance Designate.
Dr. Joergen T. Arradaza, Jr. introduced the resource speaker, Prof. Arabelle Basas-Tenebro, MAEd, RGC, an Associate Professor III from EVSU Main Campus, who led a powerful session on how to race against suicide. Prof. Tenebroโs discussion covered key areas such as suicide intervention, telemental health, and working collaboratively with students, parents, guardians, and mental health professionals to prevent suicide.
A hands-on simulation exercise followed, where participants were divided into groups, each assuming the roles of peer counselor, counselee, or observer. All groups are given three (3) stages of problems that reflect their personal experiences. Afterwards, Prof. Tenebro encouraged the participants to share three takeaways from the session, fostering a deeper connection to the learning.
Prof. Basas then ended her session, reminding the participants to always show love to one another.
The program concluded with the awarding of a certificate and token of appreciation to Prof. Tenebro, followed by closing remarks from Mrs. Dina Capala, RN, Clinic Designate of EVSU-OC. Mrs. Capala expressed heartfelt gratitude to the speaker and participants, emphasizing the life-saving potential of training like RACE Against Suicide.
: T.M. Ymas
: T.M. Ymas, I.R. Pagalan, E.M. Mantala, J.C. Donayre
