29/09/2026
đź’š SU***DE PREVENTION AND AWARENESS MONTH CULMINATING ACTIVITY đź’š
September 29, 2026
“Creating Hope, Building Connections, Saving Lives”
As the month of September—Su***de Prevention and Awareness Month draws to a close, the Local Government Unit of Pagadian City, through the City Health Office (CHO) led by its City Health Office II Dr. Debbylene Tan Ildefonso, in collaboration with Sta. Lucia National High School, successfully conducted a Su***de Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Culminating Activity today, September 29, 2026.
The activity was made possible through the strong support and collaboration of Principal IV Ma’am Babai Manupac Paniorotan, together with the dedication and hard work of the school's Guidance Counselor, Ma’am Jona Salaguste, in promoting the mental health and overall well-being of learners.
The activity was conducted in two separate batches to accommodate learners from Grade 7 to Grade 12, with the participation of more than 900 learners and teachers.
Two meaningful and timely topics were discussed by the resource speakers:
🎤 Ma’am Jona Salaguste, Guidance Counselor, Sta. Lucia National High School, discussed “The Role of the School Guidance and Counseling Office in Su***de Prevention.” She emphasized the importance of the school as a safe and supportive environment where learners can openly express their feelings, seek help, and receive appropriate guidance and intervention.
🎤 Ms. Glyn Suson-Jumalon, RM, RN, MN, discussed “Accessing Community Mental Health and Health Services.” The discussion focused on helping learners understand that seeking professional help is a sign of courage and strength, not weakness.
She also highlighted the importance of recognizing warning signs, listening without judgment, and encouraging learners to reach out when they are experiencing emotional difficulties.
Learners were oriented on the importance of knowing where and how to access available mental health and health services in the community, including the role of health professionals, guidance counselors, family members, teachers, and other trusted individuals in providing support.
The activity served as an important reminder that su***de prevention is a shared responsibility. It begins with creating safe spaces where young people feel heard, valued, respected, and understood. A simple conversation, a listening ear, a kind word, or guiding someone toward appropriate professional help can make a meaningful difference.
đź’š To our learners: You are not alone. Your feelings matter. Your life matters. It is okay to ask for help.
đź’š To our teachers, guidance counselor, health workers, and school personnel: Let us continue to be compassionate listeners and supportive adults whom our young people can trust.
The LGU Pagadian City through the City Health Office remains committed to strengthening partnerships with schools and communities in promoting mental health awareness, su***de prevention, early help-seeking, and accessible health services for our young people.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Sta. Lucia National High School, led by Principal IV Ma’am Babai Manupac Paniorotan, Guidance Counselor Ma’am Jona Salaguste, the teaching and non-teaching personnel, and all participating learners for making this meaningful activity possible.
Together, let us continue to create hope, strengthen connections, promote mental health, and save lives. đź’š
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