Gaane, Rodriguez supports Lakaw Paglaum for suicide prevention

Councilor Paolo Nicolo Gaane and the Office of Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez joined more than 3,000 Kagay-anons in the fourth “Higala, Ayaw og Buhi, Kuyog ‘Ta sa Lakaw Paglaum” Solidarity Walk organized by the CSWD Psychosocial Unit on Sunday, September 13, as part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026.

Carrying the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, the activity aims to raise awareness on suicide prevention and encourage the community to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological struggles.

The walk was followed by a program featuring the launch of the Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026 video campaign by the CSWD and City Information Office.

As chair of the committee on health, Councilor Gaane, in his message, emphasized the importance of changing the way people respond to those who are struggling, particularly by replacing judgment, stigma, and silence with understanding, empathy, and meaningful support. “Wala kamo nag-inusara”, he stressed.

For his part, Councilor Rodriguez, as chairperson of the committee on social services and an advocate for mental health, reaffirmed his support for initiatives that promote mental health awareness and remind every Kagay-anon that they are seen, heard, and not alone.

The Solidarity Walk also served as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention—from listening without judgment to encouraging those in need to seek appropriate help and professional support. (JBD & JDO/SP)