VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR. In celebration of 2025 National Women’s Month, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Ilocos Sur, successfully conducted a Mental Health Training for PSA Employees at the Provincial Statistical Office of Ilocos Sur, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on 21 March 2025.  The training aimed to equip employees with the tools needed to manage stress and mental health challenges, while promoting a positive and inclusive work culture.  A total of 42 PSA employees participated in the training, gaining valuable insights on coping mechanisms, stress management, and the significance of mental health in both personal and professional lives.

Information Officer (IO) I Ethelwolda Nichole P. Carbonell began the training by acknowledging the presence of the resource person and staff present on the training. The training officially commenced with welcome remarks delivered by Supervising Statistical Specialist (SSS) John Michael S. Sarabia. The training was led by Ms. Alliah Nicole T. Sayo, a Certified Mental Health First Aider (CMHFA), Certified Human Resource Associate (CHRA), youth mental health coach, and member of the NYC Mental Health Youth Hub. Ms. Sayo facilitated interactive discussions, activities, and practical exercises. The topics covered included recognizing signs of mental distress, building emotional resilience, and fostering an open dialogue about mental health within the workplace. In addition, Ms. Sayo also presented statistics and facts on Mental Health Worldwide. After the informative discussion, participants raised their questions and shared insights during the open forum pertaining to the topics presented.

The training was officially closed with a heartfelt message from Statistical Specialist (SS) II Engr. Dante D. Dacquel, who expressed his gratitude to the resource speaker and participants for their active involvement on the training. SS II Dacquel also highlighted PSA’s broader commitment to promoting gender equality, fostering inclusive environments, and ensuring the well-being of PSA employees as they continue to serve the public with dedication and excellence.

This initiative is part of PSA Ilocos Sur’s ongoing efforts to foster a healthier and more supportive work environment, especially for women, by promoting mental health awareness and providing a platform for employees to discuss their mental health concerns freely and without stigma.

SGD. JEANETTE M. MARZAN    
Chief Statistical Specialist
PSO Ilocos Sur