NEUST Psychology Department leads Mental Health Week celebration with awareness seminar
The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Psychology Department, in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and the Guidance and Counseling Office, spearheaded the celebration of Mental Health Week through a mental health awareness and suicide prevention seminar held at the Closed Gymnasium, NEUST Sumacab Campus.
In her message, Dr. Ma. Lourdes Quijano, Dean of OSAS, emphasized the university’s commitment to mental wellness, stating, “You are not alone. We are a community that cares, listens, and embraces you with compassion and understanding.”
University President Dr. Rhodora Jugo echoed this sentiment by encouraging students to normalize seeking help and to recognize their inherent worth beyond external achievements.
“Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means you’re human. Humility and humanity are meant to be shared. The world doesn’t end on your worst day, and your value isn’t defined by grades, social status, or accomplishments,” said the President.
Dr. Jugo also took the opportunity to commend the Psychology Department for its outstanding performance in the 2025 Board Licensure Examination for Psychometricians (BLEPP), where NEUST achieved a 100% passing rate and produced two topnotchers.
The seminar was led by Matthew Mercado, RPm, CHRA, NEUST alumnus and BLEPP 2025 Top 7, who provided discussions on mental health statistics, causes of self-harm, and strategies to foster a positive outlook on life.
Mercado also addressed the role of students as future advocates of mental well-being, stating, “You are the next generation of stewards—the guardians of mental health, the crisis managers, and the architects of healing in a world that desperately needs it.”
The celebration was also graced by NEUST key officials, including Dr. Feliciana Jacoba, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Melissa Belinda Faronilo, Director of the Office of Admission and Registration, Dr. Mario Abesamis, Jr., Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Ms. Mary Claire Calura, Head of the Guidance and Counseling Office, Dr. Clarinda Reyes, Chairperson of the Psychology Department, and other faculty and staff.
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