The Guidance and Counseling Services and Information and Orientation Services, in collaboration with the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling (MAGC) program, focused on anti-bullying and mental wellness in their community outreach as part of UNP’s 59th founding anniversary.

The office held its activity at the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ayusan Sur, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.

Dr. Eva Marie C. Avila, director of Quality Assurance and professor in the MAGC program, led the team of facilitators including: Mrs. Glenny Angellica B. Barrientos, Ms. Krystal Gale D. Senica, Ms. Pauline Yanssen G. Martinez, Ms. Charlene T. Calbero, Mr. Jun Cesar T. Cortez, and Ms. Eden A. Ulep.

The team was warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr. Erwin E. Echalas, Rev. Fr. Pee Jay A. Bello, and over 60 minor seminarians. 

During the event, Dr. Avila discussed that the extension activity is part of the continuous collaboration between UNP and the ICMS community.

Ms. Senica addressed bullying prevention, focusing on the key roles involved, its negative impacts, and strategies for intervention when witnessing bullying incidents.

Mrs. Barrientos discussed mental health, highlighting warning signs, protective factors, and risk factors associated with mental well-being. She concluded her discussion by providing practical mental health tips for the seminarians to implement and share. 

In his opening remarks, Rev. Fr. Echalas captured the essence of the extension activity by describing it as “enlarging your tents.” This metaphor signifies UNP’s commitment to expanding its support for the seminarians and the ICMS community, echoing the message from Isaiah 54:2: “Enlarge the place of your tent; stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” This reflects both an invitation to grow in service and a call to embrace a broader community.