Calamba Youth Join ‘I Am Loved’ Campaign to Promote Mental Health Awareness

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — Around 650 senior high school and college students gathered at the Jose Rizal Coliseum on Saturday, September 19, for a mental health wellness forum aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging young people to seek help when facing emotional and psychological challenges.

The event, led by Calamba City Lone District Representative Cha Hernandez, formally launched the “I Am Loved” Campaign under the theme “Mind Your Mind, Young Champions!”

The initiative brought together students, government representatives, mental health professionals, and advocates to promote mental wellness and strengthen support systems in schools and local communities.

PMHA Highlights Importance of Community-Based Mental Health Support

Dr. Carolina Uno Rayco, RGC, RPsy, National Executive Director of the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA), discussed the growing concerns surrounding depression and other mental health conditions affecting young people.

During her presentation, Rayco emphasized the importance of equipping health workers, educators, and community advocates with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize mental health concerns and provide appropriate initial support.

She also highlighted PMHA’s continuing efforts to train and capacitate individuals at the grassroots level, particularly in barangays, to help expand access to mental health information and services.

Partnership Sealed Through Memorandum of Agreement

A significant part of the forum was the ceremonial signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the office of Representative Hernandez and PMHA.

PMHA President Architect Mariano Arce Jr. and Dr. Uno Rayco signed the agreement on behalf of the association, formalizing a partnership focused on promoting mental health awareness in schools and barangays.

The collaboration seeks to advance mental health promotion, psychoeducation, and referral mechanisms, bringing reliable information and support services closer to students, families, and communities in Calamba.

Students Encouraged to Become Mental Wellness Advocates

In her address, Hernandez, fondly called “Cong. Cha” by her supporters, described the participants as “young champions” who can help promote a culture of understanding and compassion toward people experiencing mental health difficulties.

She underscored the importance of having someone to talk to and knowing where to seek assistance during difficult times.

Through the “I Am Loved” Campaign, the organizers aim to encourage open discussions about mental health, challenge the stigma surrounding emotional struggles, and remind young people that asking for help—particularly from trusted family members and other support networks—is a strength rather than a weakness.

Wellness Activities Promote Calm and Resilience

The forum also featured wellness activities designed to help participants manage stress and anxiety.

Yoga and meditation mentor Maxene Magalona led the students in a box breathing exercise, followed by a short meditation session intended to promote relaxation and mindfulness.

Magalona also shared a message of hope, emphasizing the importance of faith, resilience, and the belief that every person is loved by God as they navigate life’s challenges.

She later performed “Kaleidoscope,” a song popularized by her father, Filipino hip-hop pioneer Francis Magalona, adding a musical highlight to the wellness gathering.

Counseling, Trauma Healing Discussed

Pastor Ken Guillermo addressed questions from the students concerning trauma healing, counseling, and available support services.

He also discussed the role of radio-based guidance programs in providing information, counseling assistance, and referrals to appropriate professional services.

His presentation highlighted how faith-based organizations and media platforms can contribute to mental health education and help connect individuals with the assistance they may need.

Campaign Seeks Sustainable Support System for Calamba Youth

The launch of the “I Am Loved” Campaign reflects efforts to bring mental health awareness and support closer to young people through schools, barangays, and community-based initiatives.

With the partnership between Hernandez office and PMHA, the program seeks to establish a more coordinated approach to mental health promotion, early recognition of concerns, peer support, and timely referrals.

Organizers hope that the campaign will help foster an environment where Calamba’s youth feel valued, understood, and empowered to seek support whenever they face mental health challenges.