Written by Godwin Ayodoc
In celebration of its 66th Founding Anniversary, the Philippine Mental Health Association–Cordillera Chapter, Inc. held its 42nd Mental Health Symposium last June 11, 2026, at the Olive Grand Ballroom, Venus Parkview Hotel, Baguio City. The event revolved around the theme “Thriving Across Generations: Stress, Lifestyle, and Values for Holistic Well-Being” and aimed to promote mental health awareness, resilience, and holistic well-being across generations.
A total of 175 participants, composed of guidance counselors, associates, mental health practitioners, and individual members, attended. Most came from local government units and educational institutions across the Cordillera Administrative Region. Ms. Camille Joyce G. Velasco and Mr. Godwin Deve D. Ayodoc served as official delegates for the University of Baguio Center for Counseling and Student Development.
In detail, Dr. Wilfredo Francis D. Mina II, as the first speaker, helped the attendees identify how fundamental stressors like physical health, personality traits, interpersonal relationships, and a core sense of purpose are perceived and experienced differently across generations. Dr. Danne Janne G. Diaz, on the other hand, introduced the core principles of lifestyle medicine, framing daily habits as powerful medicine for promoting holistic health. Lastly, Ms. Nerisa T. Gonzalo issued an inspiring call to action, encouraging mutual understanding and collective growth. After sharing her life story and discussing how to narrow the gap between generations, attendees left inspired to embrace purpose-driven living not just as an individual pursuit but as a shared foundation for holistic and sustainable well-being across all generations. The symposium ended with a panel discussion where speakers answered questions from attendees.
For the University of Baguio community, these lessons are a call to action. By anchoring oneself in shared values and commitment to collective growth, the university will continue to foster academic excellence and a supportive environment. This will help every generation thrive in holistic well-being.
