Don Bosco Philippines South Province

The Salesian youth of Mindanao District with 56 participants from Don Bosco Mati and Mary Help of Christians Parish gathered again for their annual Leaders and Animators Formation 2019 (LAF) last September 14, 2019 held at Mary Help of Christians Parish, Dacudao, Calinan, Davao City. The main topic of the event was mental health awareness that was given by Mr. Abby Banuag, RPm together with the SYM- FIS Senior youth leader, Mr. Eduardo Empelis Jr., Staff, Ms. Patlyn Antonette Pañares and the SYM-FIS in-charge, Rev. Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SDB.

The topic of the event was very timely. The Salesians who attended it has the experiences and thoughts about depression and suicide. It was also the venue for correction of misinterpreted ideas about being sad and depressed. The event also seems to be an eye opener to those who attended, that even just having an idea of ending ones life is a serious matter. And the best help anyone can give is to be a friend to someone who is experiencing this, someone who is willing to listen without judgement nor offering advice. According to Mr. Abby, “sometimes, all we need is just presence and a listening ear”.

(Contributed by: Krezyl Joy Ungab- MHCP-Dacudao Youth Leader )