La Union MSGC, Partner Orgs Kickstart Community-Based Mental Health Awareness Program
By: Loren M. Obillo, GPC-PPDO | Photos By: Loren M. Obillo, GPC-PPDO | Date: May 23, 2023
As the external champion of the Province’s Strategy and in support of the PUSO Agenda, the La Union Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC) conducted a Community-Based Mental Health Program in partnership with the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center and the Philippine Nurses Association Inc. La Union Chapter last May 23, 2023, at Barangay Sagayad, City of San Fernando, La Union.
The Community-Based Mental Health Program aimed to capacitate adolescent participants, parents, and Barangay Health Workers to create an environment where the youth can develop a healthy state of well-being to contribute greatly to their communities. The activity was spearheaded by the MSGC’s Representative for the Community Outreach Sector, Mr. Matthew Joseph R. Almojuela.
In his opening message, MSGC Chairperson Rev. Brennus H. Paragas acknowledged the City Health Office of the City of San Fernando for identifying Brgy. Sagayad to be the initial beneficiary of the Pilot Program based on its number of mental health and teenage pregnancy cases.
Mr. Jonathan B. Paglingayen, RN, Nurse I of the ITRMC presented the Advocacy for Mental Health, the Philippine Mental Health Law as well as some tips to increase awareness to break the stigma and to improve mental health in the community. He also shared various approaches to increase love and appreciation for one’s self.
Likewise, Ms. Kristel Gizelle A. Beñas, MAN, RN, Nurse Supervisor of the ITRMC and President of the PNA La Union Chapter, presented the Risks and Realities of Teenage Pregnancy to better understand the effects and its implication among young mothers. To add, Ms. Beñas urged participants to create a healthy environment and support system for the youth to guide them in their decisions.
Also present during the program were the sponsors of the activity such as Holcim Helps, ZONTA International Club of La Union, Rotary Club of San Fernando City North, Love Radio and Aksyon Radio, and Iceland Agoo.
Following the success of the pilot program, the MSGC aims to reach more barangays within the rest of the year. This is one of the commitments of the MSGC in support of the province’s call for #LaUnionProbinsyanihan.
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