FOCAL persons tasked with mental health awareness in each of the city’s barangays will undergo an orientation later this month to strengthen community understanding of mental health issues.
The orientation, scheduled for Nov. 26 in Barangay Nazareth, is a direct response to the growing number of mental health issues facing the community.
City Councilor Maximo Rodriguez, chairman of the Committee on Social Services, said the event will be attended by two mental health focal persons from each of the 80 barangays in the city, totaling 160 participants.
The assignment of two focal persons per barangay is based on an approved resolution authored by Rodriguez, who is also a member of the City Mental Health Board.
This initiative aims to strengthen public awareness about the importance of understanding and addressing mental health challenges.
Rodriguez confirmed that his office is funding the activity.
“Sa November 26, ato silang ipatawag, ang atong office ang nag gasto ana para paghatag og orientation,” said Rodriguez.
The whole-day event will be joined by the psychosocial unit of the City Social Welfare and Development. Rodriguez said they will discuss red flag signs for those undergoing mental health issues.
Rodriguez emphasized the importance of this awareness, especially for youth aged 10 to 30, who are most likely to be affected by mental health concerns.
“We have to be aware nga dili sya basta-basta lang, especially ang atong mga parents, bantayonon gyud ang atong mga anak,” Rodriguez emphasized.
