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October 30, 2026
University of Southern Mindanao (USM) faculty and staff attended a mental health session on October 30, 2026, at the University Auditorium in Kabacan, Cotabato, where discussions focused on employee well-being, work-life balance, and managing workplace stress.
Titled “PAUSE, UNPLUG, AND RECHARGE: A Mental Health Month Special Session for USM Faculty and Staff,” the session encouraged employees to take a step back from their daily responsibilities and pay attention to their mental health.
In his message, USM President Jonald L. Pimentel said the university recognizes the importance of looking after its employees, who carry out responsibilities to the institution and its stakeholders.
“We are taking care of our personnel. We don’t want to be divided because we have a big responsibility to our stakeholders, especially since we are in the academe,” Pres. Pimentel said.
He also thanked USM alumni who continue to take an interest in the university and follow its developments.Pimentel reminded employees that the university’s greatest assets are its people, not its facilities or programs. He encouraged them to make time for rest, set aside work concerns when possible, and return to their duties with a clearer mind.
Meanwhile, Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO) Director Nerissa G. Dela Viña discussed the university’s efforts to support employee well-being through work-life balance and available leave benefits.
She reminded employees that while serving the university requires commitment, looking after their own well-being should also be a priority. She also explained the different leave benefits available to personnel and discussed the Civil Service Commission memorandum on mental health in the workplace.
Registered Psychometrician Leonard Latido served as resource person and discussed “Work Stress in the 21st Century.”
Latido explained the different stressors employees face and presented organizational coping strategies for managing workplace stress.
“Sometimes the biggest workload is the one you’re carrying in your head,” Latido said, referring to the mental burden employees may continue to carry even after their workday ends.
Spearheaded by the HRMDO, the session allowed employees to discuss the stresses they encounter at work and the importance of looking after their mental health.
