Valenzuela City Mayor Wesley Gatchalian, alongside local leaders and partners, convened for the kickoff meeting of the project, “A Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training for Filipino Frontline Workers,” marking the commencement of a concerted effort to uplift the well-being of Filipino frontline workers on 5 December 2023, at Valenzuela City Hall.

Initiated on 1 October 2023, the project aims to develop a resilience intervention tailored for frontline service workers in local Philippine communities. Led by Ms. Teresita Panganiban of the FriendlyCare Foundation, Inc. (FCFI), the kickoff meeting delved into strategic discussions regarding the implementation of the comprehensive training program.

Mayor Gatchalian expressed his support and enthusiasm for the project during the meeting, emphasizing its role in advancing mental health care in the Philippines in the long run. Expressing optimism, he conveyed his anticipation of witnessing the adoption of the project’s outcomes by various local government units (LGUs).

The project is a result of the collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), FCFI, and the Ateneo de Manila Psychology Department.

In addition to project-specific discussions, the meeting provided a platform for the PCHRD Brain and Mental Health R&D Program team to share insights into the Council’s expansive efforts to champion research and development in mental health across the country. Emphasizing the significance of supporting local R&D endeavors, the team underscored their dedication to enhancing policies and the overall quality of life for the Filipino people.

With an anticipated duration of three years, the PCHRD is committed to backing the project’s operations, research initiatives, training programs, and other essential activities aimed at fortifying the well-being of frontline workers, reaffirming a collective commitment to the holistic betterment of mental health in the community.

“The project represents a leap towards addressing the mental health challenges faced by our frontline workers, a segment of our population that plays a vital role in societal well-being. We believe that fostering resilience and mindfulness in their daily lives will contribute significantly to a healthier and more productive workforce,” said DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime Montoya.

Expected to run for three years, PCHRD will support the project’s operations, research, training, and other essential activities aimed at enhancing the well-being of frontline workers.