In a significant move to advance student welfare and mental health in higher education, the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 1, in partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the University of Northern Philippines, launched Project GROWS (Guidance and Resilience for Opportunities and Well-being of Students) and reorganized the Region I Association of Guidance Counselors (RIAGC) on May 19, 2025 at the UNP Tadena Hall.
Mr. Albert Tejero, Vice President for Finance and Administration, who represented the university president, Dr. Erwin Cadorna, in his welcome remarks, shared his happiness and excitement about the new partnership and collaboration among higher education institutions and is looking forward to the fruition of these transformative initiatives.
Project GROWS is an innovative initiative designed to empower guidance counselors and establish a comprehensive support system for students. The program integrates mental health support, resilience-building, and career placement services, aiming to provide students with the tools necessary for both academic and professional success. The event underscores CHED RO1 and the university’s commitment to holistic student development and well-being.
Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of the Office of Student Affairs and Services – Student Welfare Services Office (OSAS-SWSO) and the College of Arts and Sciences – Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling (CAS-MAGC) Program of the University shared the university’s best practices in providing mental health support for students. Her presentation emphasized UNP’s student-centered initiatives aimed at nurturing the well-being of students. In recognition of her leadership and dedication to student welfare, Dr. Acena was also elected as one of the Board of Directors representing Ilocos Sur in the Region I Association of Guidance Counselors.
A key feature of the event is the reorganization of RIAGC, which seeks to align guidance counselors with Project GROWS’ objectives. The association will serve as a collaborative platform for resource sharing, capacity-building workshops, and coordinated initiatives to promote student well-being across the region.
Moreover, highlighting the event is the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. This partnership aims to support students from OFW families through scholarships, career pathways, and mental health programs.
The day-long program included discussions on mental health, best practices, and CHED initiatives, as well as the election of new RIAGC officers.
Article by Glenny Angellica Barrientos
