Young leaders gathered at the Vigan Convention Center from July 21 to 23, 2025, for the 6th Titong Singson Youth Leadership Congress (TSYLC), where mental health was a central focus. Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of Student Welfare Services Office (SWSO) under the Office of the Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and the Program Head of the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), served as the Learning Resource Provider, delivering vital insights on the session titled “Sobrang OA: Overcoming SAD (Stress, Anxiety, Depression)” on July 22.
Dr. Acena’s session aimed at demystifying the stigmas surrounding stress, anxiety, and depression, conditions increasingly affecting today’s youth amid academic and social pressures. She provided practical strategies for recognizing and managing these challenges, inspiring participants to seek help, support one another, and develop resilience.
Following this, Dr. Acena led the interactive workshop “Vibe Check: Healthy Minds, Healthy Leader,” where delegates explored self-care techniques and the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership.
This partnership underscores the University of Northern Philippines’ commitment to nurturing not only academically capable but also emotionally resilient and socially responsible future leaders of Ilocos Sur.
Article by Glenny Angellica Barrientos.
