In a display of commitment to mental health awareness and suicide prevention, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), through the Guidance and Counseling Services Office, has taken steps to support the National Suicide Prevention Week, which runs from September 10 to 16, with the guiding theme, “RACE AGAINST SUICIDE.”

To raise awareness about this critical issue, BIPSU GCSO, through its head and the University Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Jocelyn Caing, has prepared a series of educational and supportive activities that underscore the university's dedication to the well-being of its students and the wider community.

On September 13, a Suicide Prevention Symposium transpired at the BiPSU gymnasium. The participants, which are the graduating students, were grouped into two sessions. In the morning, students from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), Laboratory High School, School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), and BiPSU Biliran Campus (BilCam) were present.

Meanwhile, for the afternoon session, students from the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), School of Engineering (SOE), School of Teacher's Education (STEd), and School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS) were the attendees.

Dr. Erwin G. Salvatierra, Vice President for Students and External Affairs, stressed in his inspirational message that conversations about suicide should be taken seriously and with compassion, and we, as community members, can do something to end the stigma.

"In a world where the pressures and challenges of life can sometimes become overwhelming, it’s essential that we come together to address the topic of suicide with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to making a difference," said Dr. Salvatierra.

"You have the potential to save a life by simply being there for someone in their time of need," he added.

Mr. Eduard A. Estroso, Jr., Provincial Mental Health Program Coordinator, and Ms. Nicole Von L. Victoria, a Psychemetrician, were the guest speakers who discussed the topics of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

An open forum ensued where students were given the chance to ask questions and seek advice.

During the closing remarks, Dr. Norma M. Duallo, Student Development and Services Office (SDSO) Director, emphasized not putting justice in one’s own hands.

"Do not end your life. In other words, do not put justice in your hands," Dr. Duallo stated.

On September 20, a Race Against Suicide Orientation Workshop will be conducted, which will still be at the university’s gymnasium. This is a training with selected teachers per school that also has two parts: Basic Module in the morning and Advanced Module in the afternoon.

The said workshop will orient guidance coordinators, peer facilitators, and student federation officers with the proper tools to help students who are dealing with mental health issues. This will also provide them with knowledge on how to combat stress, pressure, and life crises, seeing as they are the front-liners in assisting the students.

Moreover, the aforementioned program also intends to create a supportive community where participants can openly share their struggles and empower faculty members, guidance coordinators, peer facilitators, and student leaders to be of help to students in crisis.

#NationalSuicidePreventionWeek
#WoWBiPSU