Bontoc, Mountain Province – The Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC), in partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), successfully conducted a Mental Health and Values Formation seminar-workshop on June 3, 2023, at Chico Breeze restaurant.
The event, which was attended by OFW returnees of Mountain Province, along with OFW dependents and OWWA scholars, aimed to enhance awareness and understanding of mental health, particularly among individuals who have experienced the challenges of overseas work.
Speakers from MPSPC, namely Mr. Alfred O. Fomocao, Dean of the Nursing Department, Ms. Bronwen S. Lang-akan, and Dr. Rexton F. Chakas from the Liberal Arts Department, shared their insights on mental health and values formation.
Mr. Fomocao provided valuable information on mental health, mental illness, and practical tips for mental health care. He also facilitated a group activity focused on coping strategies for stress, encouraging participants to develop effective solutions for managing stress in their lives.
Ms. Lang-akan delved into the topic of spiritual coping and inner strength, discussing the realities of life and the importance of personal responsibility. Dr. Chakas, on the other hand, highlighted the experiences and values of OFWs, conducting a workshop that challenged participants to identify and reflect on various values.
The seminar-workshop was well-received by the participants, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about mental health and values formation. They expressed hope for future training programs that would equip them with the necessary tools to address life’s challenges. This initiative aligns with MPSPC’s Lifelong Learning Access Policy, which ensures that access to such activities is accessible to all, regardless of ethnicity, religion, disability, immigration status, or gender. By prioritizing mental health and values formation, MPSPC and OWWA are contributing to the overall well-being of OFW returnees and their families.
