DepEd-ARMM-LDS1, Balay Mindanao to forge stronger collaboration for a Better and Mentally Healthy Learners

Written by DACILO M. ADAP 

and Photos by NEHAL TOMAWIS

Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City — Lanao del Sur Division 1 of the Department of Education-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepEd-ARMM) and Balay Mindanao Foundation, Inc. (BMFI) are set to forge collaboration in the Implementation of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services of DepEd-ARMM’s Psychological First Aid-Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (PFA-MHPSS). 

The possible collaboration was discussed during the meeting of PFA-MHPSS Team Members Nehal Tomawis RN and Norhisa Mudag RN of the DepEd-Health and Nutrition Section with officials of BMFI at its Office in Cagayan de Oro. 

According to Nurse Tomawis, Sir "Kaloy", the President of BMFI, said that they may implement Psychosocial Support Services in October after the Marawi Crisis will be over.

Lanao del Sur Division 1 is headed by Schols Division Superintendent Normillah Pangandaman.

"Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc. (BMFI) is a Filipino Mindanao-based and Mindanao-focused non-stock, non-profit organization. 

BMFI’s work and its people articulate a sense of fierce pride for Mindanao and a passion for transforming this poorest and most conflict-torn of the country’s region into a “balay”, a true home for its peoples – Christians, Muslims and Lumads, indigenous peoples of Mindanao."

“This good news is a much needed boost for our DepEd PFA team,” said Tomawis, “which need different NGO's support to continue in the implementation of their Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services to the Learners (IDPs/Regular) of DepEd-ARMM.”

Meanwhile, the Team Leader of PFA-MHPSS Team had Collaborated with the Philippine Army's "Women in Hijab" to support DepEd PFA Team and Balay Rehabilitation Center providing MHPSS in Saguiaran, to Implement Psychosocial Support to Our Learners.“

According to 2Lt Calimag, the Platoon Leader assigned in Saguiaran and Pantar Areas, they can help and support our team to provide MHPSS and to be close with the People and Warm-up to the community.

The program suits the hush tags: #Children are the Priority. #Change is the Reality. #Collaboration is the Strategy.