By Audrielyn E. Ulloa, BA Comm-4 OJT

Many JHS students attended the the webinar on Mental Health Awareness.

On March 11, 2022, the Junior High School Student Council held their virtual activity called the Mental Health Awareness: “Pag-Ulikid Chapter 01” with the topic, “Magpahuway kag Magpadayon” which means, “Rest and continue.”

“Pag-Ulikid,” Principal Charlette B. Dianala said, “means showing concern or help to those who are in need.” The goal of “Pag-Ulikid” is to promote mental health conditions as well as bring comfort to those individuals with different problems, and, as Principal Dianala stated, “to let them feel that we really love them and care for them.”

The Mental Health webinar was premiered via Zoom and Facebook Live. For this virtual activity, Luke Trasporto, a Bachelor of Science in Social Work graduate of Central Philippine University and board exam passer in 2017, shared his story on how he became a mental health advocate, how the Covid-19 affected many Filipinos mentally, and how Luke was able to overcome his pandemic experience.

The opening remarks was led by Principal Charlette B. Dianala. Discussed, afterwards, was the story of Chapter 01’s guest speaker, Luke Trasporto, referred to as, “Manong Luke” during the webinar, on how he became a mental health advocate, as well as a recap on how the Covid-19 affected Filipinos mentally. Luke narrowed the importance of getting enough sleep, how slow progress is still progress, and that there is no shame at all in asking for help. An open forum was then conducted. Followed after was the giving of Certificate of Participation to the guest speaker. Games entitled, “Brain it on!” were presented by the hosts, Board Member Wilson Paul Andion and Board Member Beneil Christian Caperocho. The closing remarks was given by the Assistant Principal Lloyd U. Basco.

When asked what advice Luke Trasporto would give to students, as well people in general, he said, “Magpahuway kag Magpadayon.” To never take for granted the importance of taking a rest first, before we continue moving forward in life.