06/10/2025
𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝗣𝗙𝗖: 𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: “𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵: 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁”
The Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association Inc. (PGCA) and the Peer Organization of the Philippines (POP), in partnership with the Guidance Center of St. Paul College Pasig, gathered delegates from more than 50 schools and universities nationwide for the 1st National Conference: “Empowering Youth: Embracing the Power of Peer Support” held on October 4, 2025, at St. Paul College Pasig, Metro Manila.
The day began with the parade of peer banners, setting a spirited tone as participants filled the venue. The SPCP High School Chorale led the prayer and national anthem, uniting the diverse group in solemn harmony.
In her Opening Remarks, Sr. Dedicacion Rosario, SPC, SPCP Directress, stressed compassion, solidarity, and the vital role of youth in fostering hope and healing, reminding them—quoting Pope Francis—that they are “not only the future but also the present—called to bring love, healing, and hope to the world.” She cited the global impact of peer counseling in improving youth mental health in countries from Kenya to Canada and across Asia, noting that peers often bridge gaps in professional care for issues like anxiety and depression. She called peer facilitators “a priceless resource” in breaking stigma and building resilience, urging them to carry forward the mission of guidance with renewed passion.
Delivering the Keynote Message, Ms. Ma. Honey Belle B. Vicencio, RGC, PGCA National Vice President for External Affairs, centered on the theme “Empowering You: Embracing the Power of Support,” highlighting that support means showing others they are not alone. Acknowledging the pressures of academics, personal struggles, and digital spaces, she praised the youth’s resilience in showing up. She redefined leadership as “service rather than authority” and empowerment as “walking alongside others to help them rise.” Vicencio urged delegates to be intentional in offering even small gestures of support that can spark courage, connection, and change—“one conversation, one connection at a time.”
The morning session continued with Plenary Topic 1: “Innovative Program for Peer-to-Peer Support” delivered by Dr. Sheila Marie G. Hocson, Founder of PGCA-POP. Dr. Hocson underscored the pressing need for peer support under the Philippine Mental Health Act (RA 11036) due to the shortage of mental-health professionals in the country—with only 651 psychiatrists and over 4,000 unfilled guidance-counselor positions nationwide. She urged peer facilitators to act as first responders in emotional care, stressing the power of listening with empathy rather than offering dismissive words of “toxic positivity.”
Following a brief health break, the spotlight turned to Plenary Topic 2: “Peer Networking: Creating Safe Spaces – Strategies for Inclusivity” led by Mr. Danilo B. Talusan (PGCA PRO & Co-Founder of PGCA-POP) together with Mr. Alvin Guinto and Ms. Anna Claudia Durban, both PGCA-POP alumni. Moderated by Elnaries Joy Ann De Leon of ICI College Peer Facilitators’ Club, the session defined safe spaces as “sanctuaries where every voice is heard, respected, and valued regardless of background or status.” The speakers addressed challenges such as cultural bias, fear of judgment, and unequal participation, offering strategies like active listening, empathy, and equal opportunity for engagement.
An open forum followed, allowing delegates to exchange insights and share their own experiences in fostering inclusivity within their organizations.
After lunch, the POP Fellowship Session brought together participants in collaborative activities designed to promote creativity, teamwork, and camaraderie.
The afternoon session continued with Plenary Topic 3: “Becoming a Peer Facilitator” presented by Ms. Shakira P. Jacoba, POP Student Chapter President. She explained the distinction between peer support as presence—listening and comforting—and peer facilitation as transformation—guiding others toward growth and empowerment. Drawing from Carl Rogers’ core values of congruence, empathy, and positive regard, she reminded delegates that “the true gift of facilitation is not the light we give, but the light we help others find within themselves.”
The conference concluded with the announcement of the POP Mental Health Advocate winners, followed by the synthesis presented by Mr. Bon Homme Richard G. Torres, PGCA-POP Vice President for External Affairs.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Jaruvic C. Rafols, PGCA-POP President, expressed gratitude to all participants and partner institutions, highlighting the event as a milestone for youth-led mental-health initiatives. The day ended with an evaluation session and a closing prayer led by Ms. Agnes Therese Oliveros, RPm, SPCP Guidance Counselor, sealing a full day of collaboration and inspiration.
Representing DYCI-Peer Facilitators’ Circle were Adviser Ma’am Andrea Marie Cordova, CHRA, RPm; PFC President Algen Jaine Mendoza; Secretary – Marciano Campus Arvi B. Dumayag; Finance Manager – Marciano Campus Christian Nabong; and Finance Manager – Elida Campus Prince Aguilan. This participation of DYCI-PFC was made possible through the kind efforts of Esperanza C. Balatbat, RGC, the DYCI Institutional Guidance Counselor.
Words and Photos by: Arvi B. Dumayag | Vox Nostra
