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In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the College of Medicine (COM) of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) launched the “Colors of Healing” project on October 5, 2026, at the USM Commercial Building.
The project features a fundraising exhibit showcasing original artworks created by artists from across the university. Project leader Dr. Camille Toledo opened the event by emphasizing the core purpose of the initiative.
“We are gathered here today for a very important matter, and that is to create safe spaces to share stories of struggle, hope, and healing. Through this initiative, we are breaking down barriers and reminding everyone that no one has to fight their battles alone,” Dr. Toledo stated.
This was followed by a message from COM Dean Dr. Louise Cecilia Balajadia, who shared: “Thank you for being here for Colors of Healing. I am grateful for this opportunity to pause, come together, and give attention to something that affects us all. I would like to remind everyone that sometimes, we also need to help ourselves through any kind of difficulty—whether in academia, our social lives, or in private. I want you all to remember that we possess the inner strength to overcome these challenges.”
As one of the program’s highlights, guest speaker Dr. Shae Anne Bello-Mendoza facilitated a discussion on the role of psychiatrists in breaking stigma and providing accessible healthcare. By emphasizing that mental illness requires medical attention, Dr. Mendoza advocated for treating mental health with the same urgency, compassion, and commitment as physical health.
“Just as we provide medications for physical illnesses, I hope we view mental illness in the same light. We need to destigmatize the conversation and treat it openly and without fear,” Dr. Mendoza expressed.
The program transitioned into a ribbon-cutting ceremony joined by official project partners, key stakeholders, and COM students. Following the ceremony, Extension Services Office (ESO) Director Dr. Glyn B. Gabano-Magbanua led the attendees in reciting the Pledge of Commitment.
In his message of support, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel highlighted the Gulahay Project, encouraging faculty, staff, and students to engage in plant cultivation and gardening, citing its mental health benefits in managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Closing remarks were then delivered by COM Extension Coordinator Dr. Josephine Martinez-Buison.
“Earlier, as each of you signed the wall of commitment, you shared a promise—to foster empathy, to break stigma, and to listen without judgment. Thank you, everyone, for your presence, compassion, and solidarity. May we continue to paint a kinder, more understanding world together,” Dr. Martinez-Buison said.
The Colors of Healing initiative successfully gathered 32 artworks from faculty, staff, and students across the university. Running until October 30, the exhibit is open for public viewing at the College of Medicine Lobby, with artworks available for acquisition by prospective art collectors.
Held in partnership with the Extension Services Office (ESO), Office of Student Affairs (OSA), DA-Philippine Carabao Center at USM, Torrent Pharma, and MedChoice Pharma, the initiative successfully created a community-driven platform for mental health advocacy, creative expression, and holistic healing.
