The City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO) conducted a special event titled “Lead with Mind & Heart: A Student Leaders’ Mental Health Workshop” on October 17, 2025, at the CCCdeO campus. The activity was spearheaded by the Student Welfare and Services Office (SWSO) under the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) as part of the college’s initiative to promote mental health awareness and student well-being.
In her opening message, Dr. Helmae E. Tapanan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the importance of leading with both wisdom and compassion. She encouraged student leaders to “lead wisely with their minds and bravely with their hearts,” highlighting that true leadership is rooted in empathy and connection.
The workshop featured insightful sessions from three distinguished speakers. Mr. Geno P. Matondo, LSW, RGC, CHRA, discussed Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome; Ms. Maria Michaela Q. Jamora, RPsy, shared techniques on Mental Health First Aid; and Ms. Faith Quinal-Colarte, RGC, talked about Creating Mentally Healthy Student Meetings. Each session aimed to equip student leaders with practical knowledge to manage stress, build resilience, and support the mental well-being of their peers.
The event formed part of CCCDO’s celebration of World Mental Health Awareness Month, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to fostering a supportive and mentally healthy academic environment.
Photo 1: Mr. Geno P. Matondo, LSW, RGC, CHRA, discusses “Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome” during the Lead with Mind & Heart workshop held on October 17, 2025, at the City College of Cagayan de Oro AVR. Photo 2: The City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCdeO) held “Lead with Mind & Heart: A Student Leaders’ Mental Health Workshop” on October 17, 2025, at the CCCdeO campus to promote mental health awareness and student well-being.
Words: Mark Retes Photos by: Dyna Luz Liponhay, Rachel Yvonne Palanog