Baguio City, October 8, 2024 — Continuing their advocacy for mental health awareness and workplace well-being, the University of Baguio, in partnership with the Baguio City Jail Male Dorm, held the second installment of its transformative initiative, BREATHE Series 2: Building Resilience, Empowerment, and Adaptability Towards Healthier Environments for BJMP Personnel. Participants included personnel from various city, municipal, and district jails across the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Cordillera Administrative Region (BJMP CAR), SCJPS personnel, and students. With the theme “Navigating Workplace Challenges: Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Resilience,” the program aimed to equip BJMP personnel with tools to address mental health challenges and foster resilience.
This initiative was built upon the success of BREATHE Series 1, which took place in January 2024. Series 1 laid the foundation for this ongoing program, which promotes mental well-being among those working in high-pressure environments. The positive reception and feedback from the first series inspired the continuation of the project, with the University of Baguio and BJMP further strengthening their collaboration to support mental health resilience.
Ms. Leny O. Estacio, Director of the University of Baguio Center for Counseling and Student Development, was the resource speaker in BREATHE Series 2.
Dr. Charesma Grace K. Lud-ayen, Dean of the University of Baguio SCJPS, presented the rationale for the endeavor and emphasized the importance of maintaining mental and emotional well-being in challenging work environments like law enforcement. This initiative provides practical methods to help you cope with stress, promote mental health awareness, and build supportive workplace environments.
The BREATHE Series initiative addresses the complex and high-stress nature of the BJMP personnel’s roles. Through workshops, discussions, and expert guidance, the series provides participants with practical strategies to cope with the psychological demands of their work. As Ms. Estacio explained, BJMP personnel face daily stressors that require adaptability, mental resilience, and a strong support system.
BREATHE Series 1, launched in January 2024, introduced the need for mental health and stress management programs for correctional facility staff. Its success set the stage for Series 2, which focused on deepening the conversation around resilience, empowerment, and mental health awareness. By recognizing the ongoing need for support, the University of Baguio and the BJMP reaffirmed their commitment to creating a healthier work environment for personnel.
During the BREATHE Series 2 program, Ms. Estacio discussed various topics related to mental health challenges, stress management, and the significance of fostering emotional resilience. The event also focused on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging participants to prioritize self-care, seek support when needed, and apply practical strategies to manage the cognitive demands of their roles.
The success of BREATHE Series 1 paved the way for the continued expansion of this vital initiative, which will focus on providing consistent support to BJMP personnel. As mental health awareness becomes a priority, the BREATHE Series is a proactive step towards creating lasting, positive change in workplace culture.
The event concluded with BJMP personnel expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the program. Many shared their experiences and the importance of mental health support in their demanding line of work.
With the momentum generated by BREATHE Series 2, the University of Baguio and BJMP look forward to continuing their partnership. The goal is to empower personnel with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of their profession. The BREATHE program continues to support and achieve SDGs such as SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being; SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 5 Gender Equality; SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goal that the installments of the series will continue to promote resilience, adaptability, and a culture of mental health and well-being within BJMP facilities.
