SOUTH COTABATO, October 19, 2022 – To promote mental well-being at work, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Region 12 conducted a two-day Workplace Mental Health Training to boost staff psychological health, enhance morale, and increase productivity.

Held on October 13 to 14, led by the Regional SAAD Focal Person Julie Mie Belongan, the activity was aimed at recognizing and promoting mental health, as an essential part of creating a safe and healthy workplace. The SAAD provincial staff from Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani; and representatives from Balik Probinsiya Bagong Pag-asa (BP2), Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA), Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) took part in the event.

Guided by a registered psychologist, Mr. Renz Anthony R. Sumapal, the workshop included understanding mental health issues, symptoms, and factors of work-related stress, and identifying stressors, preventions, benefits, and work ethics.

During the activity, 40 participants eagerly engaged in the dynamic exchanges, activities, and group discussions, which included finding their strengths and weaknesses. Grouped with 10 members each, they were tasked to recognize their signs of emotional distress, as well as their related short and long-term solutions. In this way, they react in a supportive rather than punitive action.

Moreover, each province shared their practiced work ethics that invigorated their performance as a team: from “walang iwanan” in Sultan Kudarat; “lahat kapamilya” in Cotabato; to a maintained “God-centered” in Sarangani.

The training is anticipated to create opportunities for the staff to make meaningful connections with each other. Without a strong positive relationship at work, employees are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of stress inside and beyond the workplace. Hence, the participants are encouraged to practice positive self-talk and to think through situations before acting. ###

Writer: Anabell F. Llemit, DA-SAAD Region 12 Administrative Assistant III