The partnership is an offshoot of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the two institutions last 2023 that resulted in a series of mental wellness-related skills trainings and talks held thereafter. This long-overdue MOA this time centers on the DepEd’s Katatagan Program and ISUFST’s RISE (Resilience in Schools through Empowerment) Project, which will focus on mental health concerns in Passi City basic education schools such as bullying, academic stress, and suicide prevention. The goal is to provide purposive psychological first aid and similar training for educators and strengthen mental wellness support for students in Passi City.

 

Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, expressed the university’s commitment to the cause: “This partnership is a critical step toward building a resilient educational environment where mental wellness is integral and accessible to all. Our students face challenges that we could not have anticipated before, and now, more than ever, teachers need skills that equip them to handle the emotional and mental struggles that students are grappling with. It is not just about academics but about nurturing their well-being.”

 

He reflected on his long-standing partnership with Dr. Ma. Roselyn J. Palcat, recalling their time together at DepEd, where they worked in tandem to support schools. “We’ve been doing this together for years, and I’m proud to continue our shared mission to improve the learning environment for our children,” he said, acknowledging the continued collaboration between ISUFST and DepEd.

 

Dr. Ma. Roselyn J. Palcat, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd Passi City, reiterated the initiative’s significance. “The mental health of our students and educators is key to their success. This partnership gives us the tools to create a supportive and nurturing environment for everyone in our schools,” she said.

 

“It is vital that we teach not only the subject matter but also resilience and responsiveness in the face of adversity. Our teachers and guidance advocates will be equipped to help our students cope with the pressures they face in school and life,” Dr. Palcat added. It is worth noting that the DepEd Schools Division of Passi City has recently won DepEd’s regional award for innovation due to its mental health campaign, which is attributable to its close partnership with relevant institutions, including ISUFST, LGU of Passi City led by Mayor Stephen Palmares, Office of Cong. Ferjenel Biron, and Cameleon Philippines.

 

Under the MOA, ISUFST will provide training, counseling services, and career and mental health resources tailored to the Passi City division and school’s needs. The programs will be inclusive and accessible to all students. The three-year RISE Project will focus on building emotional resilience in educators and students, emphasizing handling mental health crises and concerns.

 

Dr. Siason and Dr. Palcat highlighted the importance of long-term efforts to ensure the sustainability of the programs. Dr. Siason emphasized, “This is not a short-term fix. We are committed to securing the resources and support necessary to ensure this initiative is successful in the long run. We have strong advocates for guidance here at ISUFST, and we will use every resource available to support Passi City in its efforts.”

 

The pandemic has made mental health challenges for both students and educators even more pressing. Dr. Palcat emphasized, “Teaching resilience goes beyond mental toughness. It’s about giving educators the right tools to be supportive and responsive. “We must prioritize mental wellness and provide a safe space for students to share their struggles.”

 

For ISUFST’s part, this partnership is a big step in creating a stronger, more resilient community in Passi City, where students’ emotional well-being is as important as their academic success. (PAMMCO)