The Department of Health (DOH) Central Visayas Center for Health Development served as resource persons for a successful Psychological First Aid (PFA) training organized by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region VII, held on March 11, 2025, at Stacia Hotel, Cebu City. This empowering event was held to celebrate the 2025 National Women’s Month, signifying MGB 7’s commitment to the well-being of all its employees, both women and men.

The training aimed to equip participants with essential skills to provide psychosocial support to individuals affected by emergencies and crisis situations, fostering a more supportive and resilient workplace.

The session officially commenced, with MGB 7 Regional Director Engr. Armando L. Malicse, by giving his warm opening remarks. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting a healthy work environment. “The timely topic is relevant to the current stresses faced by many employees,” RD Malicse stated, “and I appreciate the DOH7 resource persons for sharing their expertise.”

Ms. Jan Vinhery I. Taboada started the “Getting to Know You” activity, creating a collaborative and engaging learning atmosphere. The core sessions, began with Mr. Ryard Jude T. Pepito discussing “What is PFA? Place of PFA in Overall Response, Who, When and Where of PFA”. Mr. John Paul D. Cocon followed with a session on “PFA Action Principles: Prepare, Look, Listen and Link”. Ms. Taboada returned to discuss “Communication Skills and Adaptation of PFA to the Local Context”.

The afternoon sessions included Mr. Pepito discussing “Vulnerable Groups and Ethical Guidelines” and Mr. Cocon addressing “Caring for the Carers”, highlighting the importance of self-care for those providing support. Ms. Taboada facilitated a simulation exercise, providing participants with practical application of the skills learned and empowering them to confidently utilize their new knowledge.

Mr. Al Emil G. Berador, Chief of the Geosciences Division and GAD Focal Person, delivered the closing remarks, reiterating the importance of the session and that all present will be able to help and expressed hope that this can be applicable not only in the workplace but also to anyone in need, like family and friends.

RD Malicse also acknowledged the initiative of the Finance and Admin. Division, led by Aira L. Torregosa, and Geoscience Chief Al Emil G. Berador as the GAD Focal Person, for their dedication to employee well-being and their role in organizing the empowering training.

Certificates of Appreciation were handed by RD Malicse and Mr. Berador to DOH 7 resource persons Mr. Ryard Jude T. Pepito, DMO IV, Ms. Jan Vinhery I. Taboada, HPO II, and Mr. John Paul D. Cocon, HPO I.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region VII, in collaboration with DOH7, is committed to enhancing the capacity of individuals to provide crucial psychosocial support, fostering a stronger, more resilient, and empowered community within the organization, in alignment with the spirit of 2025 National Women’s Month. (IO/Heart Rizarri)

#weareallequal#2025NationalWomensMonth