BASC, San Ildefonso, Bulacan — October 1, 2025 — The Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) community delivered a powerful and timely message of hope and support yesterday, September 30, 2025, with a significant program dedicated to mental health awareness. Titled “CHANGING THE NARRATIVE ON SUICIDE: PREVENTING SUICIDE IS A GLOBAL IMPERATIVE,” the event was strategically held at the BASC Cayetano Hall to close Suicide Prevention Month (September) and launch awareness for World Mental Health Month (October).

The program, facilitated by the Safe Space Allies (SSA) Officers, brought together students and faculty in a coordinated effort to destigmatize mental health struggles and foster a campus-wide culture of care.

The sessions began with an inspiring address from Dr. Cecilia S. Santiago, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Her message was a heartfelt call to action, emphasizing that “every voice matters.” She delivered a direct, comforting message to the students: “Always remember, YOU ARE NEVER ALONE.” Dr. Santiago urged everyone to reach out for help and assured them that the doors of the Vice President’s Office, the OSAS-Student Welfare Services Unit (SWSU), and the Office of the President are always open for those who need support.

The program’s core featured expert-led discussions, providing essential tools and knowledge to the BASC community.

The crucial topic, “Understanding Suicide: A Public Health Priority,” was delivered by Ms. Sunshine Joy N. Benosa, LPT (Guidance Counselor and SWSU/SSA Adviser) for the morning student session, and by Ms. Anna Jennifer Demetillo, RPm (Head of the SWSU and SSA Adviser) for the afternoon faculty session. Their presentation focused on identifying the warning signs and risk factors of suicidal behavior, dispelling common myths, and stressing the need for collective responsibility in prevention.

Following the primary presentation, Mr. Alvin DC. Pangilinan, RPm, a faculty member from the Institute of Arts and Sciences, shared the “Basics of Psychological First Aid (PFA).” His session was key in equipping attendees with the practical, non-intrusive skills needed to approach and support individuals in acute distress and connect them with further professional help. Ms. Demetillo then concluded by outlining the institutional resources available to reinforce the safety net BASC has in place, underscoring that the college truly cares about its students and is committed to supporting this vital program.

A crucial component of both the student and faculty sessions was the interactive forum, which allowed for a direct, judgment-free exchange between the attendees and the speakers. This open dialogue highlighted BASC’s profound commitment to building a transparent and proactive environment.

The success of the program sends a clear, warm message: BASC recognizes mental wellness as fundamental to academic and personal success and is actively ensuring that support and hope are constantly available to all members of its community.

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