The University of Northern Philippines and the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Vigan City spearheaded a full-day capacity development activity on May 26, 2026 at the DepEd SDO Conference Hall in Brgy. IX, Vigan City.
The training brought together Division Health Personnel, School Nurses, Registered Guidance Counselors, and Adolescent Reproductive Health Coordinators, the front-liners in addressing the psychosocial and mental health needs of students in school settings.
Faculty members from the College of Arts and Sciences and the Office of Student Affairs and Services took center stage as learning resource speakers during the capacity-building program. Setting the tone for the day, the morning session on “Client Identification and Understanding Learners at Risk” equipped participants with critical insights into student support mechanisms, early warning signs of vulnerable learners, and the ethical responsibilities involved in intervention and care. The discussions were led by Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling Program and the Student Welfare Services Office.
The afternoon learning session focused on “Basic Assisting Skills and Initial Intervention,” where Dr. Christian Gea Florentino, Head of the BS Psychology program, guided participants through core helping skills, building rapport with learners, psychological first aid, and the dos and don’ts of referral and documentation.
The activity reflects the shared commitment of UNP and SDO Vigan City to equip school-based health and support personnel with practical tools so that, when a student is struggling, the adults around them know how to respond appropriately.
