02/10/2026
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐๐ค๐ฌ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง
The Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC), through the collaborative efforts of the Department of Behavioral Medicine and the Health Education and Promotion Office of the Public Health Unit, kicked off the celebration of National Mental Health Month on October 1, 2026, with the theme, โLived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.โ
In his opening message, Dr. Kristofferson De Leon, Medical Officer IV and Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Behavioral Medicine, highlighted that mental health advocacy goes beyond a month-long celebration.
โIt begins with how we listen, how we treat one another, and how we respond to those who need support. Let us listen to understand, speak to inspire, and act to create meaningful change. Because every voice matters, every story counts, and together, we can make a difference,โ he said.
Building on the importance of listening and understanding, Dr. Cherry Lou Antonio, Medical Center Chief II, emphasized the need to create a safe and supportive environment where people can openly share their experiences and seek help.
โLet us create a space where people feel safe to speak, where asking for help is never a sign of weakness, and where no one feels they have to face their struggles alone. Let us be one anotherโs support system. Because when we hear real voices, we understand real experiences. And when we understand, we can create real change,โ Dr. Antonio said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Stanley Agor, Chief Medical Professional Staff II, highlighted that mental health is also an important part of the well-being of healthcare workers and the quality of care they provide.
โLet us remember that mental health concerns all of us. As healthcare workers, we also experience stress, pressure, and challenges in our daily work. That is why it is important to take care of ourselves and support one another. When we are in better condition, we can care for our patients with patience, understanding, and compassion,โ Dr. Agor said.
The kickoff ceremony also featured the green candle-lighting ceremony and Commitment to Mental Health Wall signing, led by Dr. Antonio together with the division heads and hospital personnel, symbolizing a shared commitment to mental health. A Zumba activity also followed, with personnel from various hospital divisions participating.
As part of the month-long celebration, the Ginhawa Walk, under the slogan โBawat Hakbang, May Ginhawa,โ also officially began on October 1. The walking challenge for hospital personnel will run until November 5, 2026, encouraging employees to stay active, build a walking habit, and prioritize their physical and mental well-being.
The kickoff ceremony reaffirmed CVMCโs commitment to reducing stigma, encouraging open conversations, and promoting mental well-being among its personnel and the patients it serves.
