The Adopt-a-School Advocacy Program for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (ASAP for MHPSS) officially launched its inaugural phase at Pattiqui-Gabur Sur Elementary School (PGSES) in Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur, on April 10, 2025. The groundbreaking event represents a significant milestone in promoting mental health and well-being in educational settings across the region.

The initiative, spearheaded by the RTU Psychology Department in collaboration with PGSES, aims to create a supportive environment for students, teachers, and parents through comprehensive mental health resources and activities.

The event commenced with an opening program featuring an invocation, the national anthem, the Ilocos Sur Hymn, and the RTU March. Mrs. Heidi G. Laus, head teacher of PGSES, delivered a warm welcome address to all attendees, setting a positive tone for the day’s activities.

Asst. Prof. Russelle Ane A. Dela Cruz, ASAP for MHPSS program leader, presented the partnership’s rationale, emphasizing the crucial importance of mental health advocacy in educational environments.

A highlight of the launch was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between RTU and PGSES. The signing was witnessed by key community figures including PTA President Mrs. Anabel Ablog and Barangay Captain Mr. Victor Villanueva, symbolizing a collective commitment from community leaders to enhancing youth and community mental health.

The program featured interactive activities designed to enhance emotional literacy and self-expression among students. Assistant Professor Mary Beth C. Miranda facilitated sessions that engaged children in drawing, singing, and dancing centered around understanding and expressing emotions. These creative approaches helped make mental health concepts more accessible and relatable for the young participants.

Simultaneous specialized seminars were conducted for different stakeholder groups. Professor Iris Cristelle Destrua and Instructor Jake Jason Queddeng led discussions with teachers focusing on personal well-being and strategies for managing stress while supporting students’ mental health.

Meanwhile, parents participated in a dedicated seminar titled “Prioritizing Self-Care while Nurturing your Child’s Mental Health and Well Being,” led by Assistant Professor Dela Cruz. The session centered on cultivating children’s emotional needs while emphasizing the importance of parental self-care.

The ASAP for MHPSS program is expected to continue with follow-up activities and resources throughout the school year as part of the ongoing partnership between RTU and PGSES.