PLDT, Smart, Partners, Strengthen Mental Health Program of Bukidnon LGU

Close to a hundred sports coaches, social workers, and educators in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, recently went through a Psychological First Aid (PFA) training program implemented by PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with Football for Humanity (FFH) and the municipal government of Manolo Fortich.

“We thank our partners from FFH and the local government of Manolo Fortich, for this opportunity to share our advocacy on mental health and overall digital wellness. We at PLDT and Smart will continue working with like-minded groups to promote the online safety of children and the youth,” said Judee D. Chaves, Mindanao Relations Head for Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

Facilitated by ‘Your Millennial Psychologist’ Riyan Portuguez, a registered psychologist and PLDT and Smart’s ‘Better Today’ program advocate, the PFA training aims to equip frontline volunteers to provide non-intrusive, practical care for those experiencing mental distress. The workshop helped enhance the participants’ psychosocial skills to help children and individuals achieve digital wellness.

Maria Cecilia C. Sajonia, Municipal Social and Welfare Department Officer said, "We recognize the importance of PFA at the barangay level. Coaches and social workers are often the first responders to mental health cases and equipping them with the proper knowledge is crucial."

Educator and coach Ronel Enderes Alemania, founder of the non-government organization ICARE Project, shared, “This is very timely for our social workers, coaches, and educators, to help them become better psychosocially-aware warriors. By empowering more people and expanding this program, we can achieve faster and more effective results.”

The Better Today program is part of PLDT and Smart's commitment to fostering mental health awareness and providing Filipinos with the resources they need to build a #BetterToday, helping the Philippines contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) No.3: good health and well-being.