Davao del Sur State College (DSSC), through its Culture, Arts, Humanities, Research and Development Center (CAHDrE), in partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and LoveYourself PH held a Psychosocial and Mental Health Wellness Forum for children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) at DSSC Main Campus on April 16, 2026.
The activity brought together members of the DSSC–OFW Children Circle (OCC) alongside BPA students, providing a safe space for students to share experiences, reflect, and build self-awareness.
The sessions focused on mental health and wellness, teaching children coping skills, stress management, and resilience. They also provided health education and child protection awareness, especially on HIV and AIDS prevention and reducing stigma. An open forum allowed questions, while team-building activities built trust and strengthened peer connections.
The program featured child protection laws and referral pathways, ensuring participants understood their rights and available support systems. More than a one-day event, the forum reflects the continuing partnership between DMW XI and DSSC, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed in February 2026.
The activity was led by Dr. Sheruel G. Matalandang, DiSDS,with guidance from BPA Adviser Instr. Neil Shane Ngojo, MPA, the program successfully integrated psychosocial support, mental health education, and HIV-AIDS awareness.
The program showcases the college’s support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting mental wellness, strengthening health literacy, and providing inclusive support for vulnerable children.
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