Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro — July 16, 2025.
As part of its 49th Founding Anniversary celebration, the Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) conducted a Gender and Development (GAD) Seminar at the Filipiniana Hotel in Calapan City. With the theme “Healthy System, Stronger Service: Celebrating Our Legacy through Wellness and Well-Being,” the seminar aimed to raise awareness on mental health, promote gender sensitivity, and strengthen support systems within the workplace.

Personnel from the Regional Office, Calapan City Parole and Probation Office, and a representative from Marinduque PPO attended the seminar onsite, while other field offices joined virtually via Zoom.

Regional Director Janette S. Padua opened the session with a message underscoring the importance of prioritizing mental health and building a supportive environment for both personnel and clients. She also emphasized that gender responsiveness must go hand-in-hand with accountability, professionalism, and compassion in community-based corrections work.

Keynote speaker Mr. Reynaldo De Guia, President of MOVE (Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere) Philippines, delivered a compelling lecture titled “Mental Health for All: Greater Investment, Greater Access.” He stressed that mental health is a fundamental human right and shared powerful statistics and insights on the challenges of mental illness, particularly among men, due to stigma and societal pressures.

Mr. De Guia clarified the differences between stress, depression, and anxiety, helping participants understand the psychological challenges they and their clients may face. He highlighted the important role of probation officers not just as supervisors but as active supporters in their clients' emotional healing and reintegration.

Quoting, “Our frustration can be an opportunity,” he encouraged everyone to embrace vulnerability, gratitude, and the value of listening. He also promoted the 18-Day Campaign to End VAWC and invited participants to support MOVE Philippines’ advocacy in building violence-free communities.

The seminar concluded with an open forum and reflections from participants, reinforcing the message that investing in mental health and gender equality is key to stronger service and lasting transformation.