In a heartening display of compassion and professional expertise, Mental Health Practitioners and Psychologists from Xavier University, through the Xavier Center for Mental Health and Research (XCMHR) and the Department of Psychology, partnered with Psychology students under the Service Learning Program (SLP) of the university’s Social Development Cluster, led by its instructor Sir John Gabriel A Lasquites, to provide relief and psychosocial support to victims of the recent fire in Barangay 17, Cagayan de Oro City. This initiative was made possible through a strong collaboration with the Barangay 17 local government unit (LGU), facilitated by the Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (SIAP).
Faculty members of the XU Psychology Department conducted psychosocial support to various
age groups who were victims of the recent fire in Brgy 17.
An initial assessment conducted by students at the evacuation center under Marcos Bridge on 17 October identified residents in need of professional mental health interventions. The findings were presented to Barangay 17 officials, led by Brgy Captain Anthony Atterviry, on 30 October, paving the way for a full-scale psychosocial intervention on 13 November.
The 13 November initiative showcased a collaborative approach, with professionals and students conducting sessions tailored to different age groups, from youth to senior citizens. Activities such as mindful coloring exercises encouraged participants to reflect on their emotions, recognize personal strengths, and plan positive steps forward. The sessions incorporated key principles of Psychological First Aid (PFA)—listening, linking, and promoting safety, calm, control, connection, and hope—guiding residents in exploring coping strategies, building resilience, and validating their emotional experiences.
XU Psychology students shared their experience in conducting the assessment session to their
professor on Disaster and Mental Health.
The Xavier University team, composed of licensed psychologists and mental health practitioners led by Dr Luel Mae ZP Contreras (XCMHR Director), with Dorothy Zoe A Drilon, Rogelio A Lee Jr, Ann Ross L Fernandez, and Maria Esther Ruth A Chavez, demonstrated the vital role of academic institutions in responding to community crises. Supporting the intervention were Disaster and Mental Health 4th-year Psychology students from Block YD Sophia Mae E Babia, Maire Maxene M Flores, Kyra Faith M Gontiñas, Arcely S Sagulay, and Jesse Grace E Wright, whose participation contributed significantly to the assessment and conduct of the sessions.
SIAP, XCMHR, XU Psychology Faculty and Students, together with a representative from Brgy 17
after a successful psychosocial session with their community.
Through the combined efforts of faculty, students, and the Barangay 17 LGU, the initiative not only addressed immediate emotional needs but also strengthened community bonds, reflecting Xavier University’s enduring commitment to holistic support, empowerment, and sustainable service for disaster-affected populations.