Written by Leny Estacio (Director, CCSD)
Photos also courtesy of Leny Estacio
September and October are significant months in the Philippines as it recognizes efforts to address the global concern on mental health. As part of its response, the University of Baguio has continuously taken significant steps to underscore the importance of mental health among students and employees. More so, the university recognizes the importance of advocating collaborative and comprehensive mental health initiatives that provide effective support for the community. This way, the university accentuates the promotion of the well-being of any community member (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being) through the use of joint resources, diverse skills, and expertise of represented groups (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals).
Complementing the initiatives on mental health is the participation of the University of Baguio in the meeting of the Baguio City Mental Health Council. This was organized by the City Government of Baguio, where the university participates as a member. The meeting was held last August 15, 2025, at RNJ Hotel, Quezon Hill, Baguio City, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and was attended by allied professionals of mental health, mental health professionals, mental health workers from different local government units, non-government organizations, the private sector, and religious sectors, among others. More so, the meeting served as an opportunity for the council members and partners to talk about the current mental health concerns in the city, assess current mental health programs and services, and determine ways to improve community-based mental health strategies. Towards the afternoon, the participants were grouped to work together in conceptualizing possible activities for the mental health week. The group activity displayed 100 % collaboration and reaffirmation of the shared commitment to advance mental health and wellness throughout the city.
Another complementary step done by the university relative to mental health and well-being was the participation in the Workshop in Crafting Workplace Mental Health policies organized by the Baguio City Health Services Office – Mental Health and Wellness unit. The activity was held last September 5,2025 at Casa La El, Bakakeng Norte, Baguio City from 8:00 to 5:00 p.m. and was attended by human resource personnel from different workplaces in the city. The workshop provided a thorough training course that highlighted the importance of workplace mental health. Further, the different topics facilitated by the invited speakers stressed the value of mental health, how it affects the workplace, and offered ways to create a supportive work environment.
Impactful results of these activities are continuously observed, including reinforced collaborations or partnerships with multi-sectoral sectors and the responsiveness of the community. Amidst this community involvement, the University of Baguio recognizes that there are still issues to be addressed, such as the formulation of culturally sensitive, well-resourced, and community-inclusive mental health programs. Even then, the university highlights its commitment to collaborating with other sectors in promoting mental health and wellness as a
