The University of Northern Philippines (UNP), in partnership with the Ilocos Sur Provincial Jair (ISPJ), spearheaded a seminar-workshop titled “A Lifeline in Lockup: Promoting Suicide Awareness in Jail” on September 17, 2025, at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail in Taleb, Bantay.
Organized by the Student Welfare Services Office (SWSO) under the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling (MAGC) program, the activity aimed to equip jail personnel with vital knowledge on mental health and suicide prevention. Organized in line with Suicide Prevention Month, the event highlighted the pressing need to strengthen mental health awareness and support systems for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and the wider jail community.
Mrs. Sarah Alcayaga, guidance counselor of the University of Northern Philippines, led the session as the main resource speaker, engaging participants in interactive discussions, psychoeducation, and wellness-focused activities. Her inputs highlighted practical strategies to help jail personnel recognize and respond to suicide risks within the facility. Overseeing the program was Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of the Student Welfare Services Office (SWSO) and Program Head of MAGC, who underscored the value of resilience, stigma reduction, and collective action in strengthening suicide prevention efforts.
The seminar-workshop was designed to develop a supportive environment where both PDLs and jail staff can learn and access lifelines for mental well-being. This initiative exemplifies UNP’s ongoing commitment to support local government units and institutions in creating safer, healthier spaces for all. By bringing together experts, government stakeholders, and mental health advocates, this endeavor reinforced the provincial jail’s commitment to safety, dignity, and hope for all, paying homage to Suicide Prevention Month.
