The University of Northern Philippines, through its Student Welfare Services Office (SWSO), took an active role as a resource partner in St. Paul College of Ilocos Sur’s wellness initiative, “Thrive With Balance: A Chair Yoga Experience and Mental Health Talk for Paulinian Formators,” held on November 7, 2025, at the SPCIS campus in Bantay.
St. Paul College of Ilocos Sur, through its Guidance Services Unit and in collaboration with Junior Chamber International (JCI) Vigan City, successfully mounted the wellness event, bringing together educators and staff for an enriching afternoon dedicated to nurturing both physical and mental well-being. The initiative highlighted the importance of holistic care for those who carry the vital responsibility of teaching and supporting learners.
Sister Dahlia Corazon Dabu formally opened the program with welcome remarks that set the tone for the wellness-centered gathering. Speaking before the participants of “A Chair Yoga Experience and Mental Health Talk for Paulinian Formators,” she emphasized the importance of nurturing both mind and body, highlighting the school’s continued commitment to holistic formation among its educators.
Dr. Marifel Acena, head of the UNP Student Welfare Services Office, led an insightful session titled “Well Within: Strengthening Minds, Inspiring Lives.” In her presentation, she unpacked evidence-based perspectives on mental health in the Philippine workplace, with a particular focus on the challenges faced by educators. Dr. Acena discussed key risk factors and protective behaviors, as well as the cultural dynamics that influence well-being, offering participants practical, actionable strategies to strengthen mental resilience and foster a more compassionate and supportive work environment.
Complementing the mental health discussion was an energizing chair yoga session facilitated by Ms. Joana Cara Medina, Local Skills Development Director of JCI Vigan. Through simple breathing techniques and gentle movement exercises, she guided participants in practical ways to ease stress and cultivate relaxation—methods designed to be seamlessly incorporated into their everyday routines.
With SPCIS leading the initiative, the wellness event wrapped up on an uplifting and forward-looking note through the closing message delivered by Mrs. Regina Ragasa. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of nurturing one’s well-being as an essential foundation for effective service and formation—an insight that resonated with the participants. Attendees expressed a strengthened resolve to integrate sustainable wellness practices into their daily routines and professional responsibilities, recognizing the impact of self-care on both personal fulfillment and work performance.
The event likewise affirmed SPCIS’s commitment to holistic formation, demonstrating how intentional programming can support the mental, emotional, and physical needs of educators and formators. Moreover, the partnership with collaborating institutions showcased the value of strategic alliances in expanding learning opportunities, enriching professional competencies, and fostering a culture of collective growth. Through these collaborative efforts, the initiative not only met its goals but also set the stage for future wellness-centered engagements.
