Barangay mental health focal persons undergo training

CAGAYAN de Oro City conducted its first Mental Health Training and Orientation for barangay focal persons at the Barangay Nazareth Gymnasium on November 26, 2025.

A collaborative effort between the Office of Councilor Maximo “Jonjon” Rodriguez III, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services, and the City Social Welfare and Development Department, the training was held in line with Resolution No. 15457-2025, authored by Rodriguez, which encourages all barangays in the city to designate at least two mental health focal persons to strengthen community support for mental health programs.

The training aimed to enhance barangay responders' knowledge and skills in mental health awareness, recognizing red flags, caring for clients with psychiatric needs, referral procedures, trauma-informed care, and telepsychiatry services.

Councilor Paolo Gaane, chairperson of the committee on health, also attended the event, emphasizing the city’s commitment to prioritizing the mental well-being of Kagay-anons.Participants were oriented on referral mechanisms to facilities such as the Northern Mindanao Medical Center for psychiatric consultations, JR Borja General Hospital for telepsychiatric consultations, and the mental health services offered by the City Health Office. Experts shared practical insights, while sessions highlighted the importance of trauma-informed care in providing compassionate support to clients.

Through this initiative, barangay mental health workers—often the first point of contact outside of family and school—are expected to become better prepared, more responsive, and more compassionate in addressing mental health concerns within their communities. (JDO/SP)