President Pimentel Encourages NSTP Graduates to Revive Spirit of Bayanihan
May 26, 2026
Personnel from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) joined the 61st Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association, Inc. (PGCA) Annual National and 2026 International Conference held on May 20–22, 2026 at Novotel Manila Araneta City and St. Bridget School in Quezon City.
The activity supported the university’s goal of strengthening its student guidance and support services.
With the theme, “The Global Helping Professional: Images, Realities, Aspirations,” the conference gathered guidance counselors, educators, and mental health workers from the Philippines and other countries. Participants discussed the changing role of helping professionals in today’s fast-changing world.
The conference featured plenary talks and 36 workshops under different categories. Through these sessions, participants learned new ways to handle student welfare and mental health concerns while improving guidance practices based on international standards.
Representing USM were Ms. Sheila Rose P. Nicor, RGC from CCD-OSA; Prof. Rosemarie R. Sison from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS); Prof. Analyn A. Gonzales from the College of Business, Development Economics and Management (CBDEM); Prof. Ma. Lezel P. Pataray from the College of Education (CED); and Prof. Altair V. Neri from the PALMA Campus.
According to Dr. Gonzales, she realized that learning goes way beyond just understanding new frameworks or standards. She learned about stepping out of her comfort zone, opening her mind to fresh perspectives, and absorbing wisdom from others who share the same passion for helping.
“This experience taught me that being a Global Helping Professional means being a lifelong learner, always curious, always updating my knowledge, and growing through every connection made,” she spoke.
Meanwhile, Ms. Nicor, shared in an interview that as counselors, they need to evaluate the psychological capital (hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism) of clients since it is the only capital that can be controlled.
“Difficulties in the implementation of programs and services of the guidance office is inevitable. However, we need to maximize resources (internal or external) to guarantee an effective and quality service to our clientele,” she added.
“We may have neurodivergents amongst our students, thus advance assessment tools are needed. Psych notes and reports should use strength-based language reframing,” she ended.
The conference gave the delegates new ideas on how to improve counseling services and build more inclusive student support programs.
Through their participation, USM continued to strengthen its guidance and student development services to better support students and meet global standards.
