Written by Gabrielle Cabredo and Justin Joseph Almarvez
The University of Baguio’s School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) successfully held a seminar-workshop titled “BREATHE SEASON 3: Building Resilience, Empowerment, and Adaptability Towards Healthier Environments” on February 21, 2025, at the Baguio City Jail Male Dormitory. The event was organized under the leadership of Dr. Charesma Grace K. Lud-ayen, Dean of UB SCJPS, and JCINSP JOHN WAYLAND M LAPON, Warden of the Baguio City Jail Male Dormitory. This collaborative effort specifically targeted BJMP personnel and Criminal Justice Education students, aiming to strengthen their ability to manage stress, overcome anxiety, address burnout, and foster a stigma-free approach to mental wellness.
The event also saw the active participation of interns from Class Sinag-Dasig (BSCRIM Team Hawk and BFSC Team Alpha), who engaged in discussions and activities, reinforcing the significance of mental health awareness in their respective fields. Their involvement highlighted the importance of training future law enforcement and correctional officers to prioritize well-being in their professional roles.
The event commenced with an Opening Prayer led by JO1 Genevieve M Cael, setting a reflective and solemn tone for the discussions ahead. This was followed by Welcome Remarks from JINSP JEAN B BILLICK, who underscored the importance of mental health awareness within the BJMP. JO1 Charlene Kate V Liis introduced the esteemed resource speaker, Dr. Susie Bangles-Baldo, CEO and Founder of Layad ya Ikigai Life Coaching Services and a dedicated mental health advocate.
Navigating Stress, Burnout, and Mental Well-Being
Dr. Bangles-Baldo opened the session with a unique reflective exercise, the ‘Bakit’ List, encouraging participants to examine their deeper motivations and purpose. This paved the way for an insightful discussion on stress and the “stress container,” helping individuals gauge their capacity to handle stress effectively. Participants learned to identify their stressors, differentiate between various stress types, and apply coping mechanisms to maintain emotional balance.
The seminar delved into burnout, a common issue in high-pressure workplaces. Dr. Bangles-Baldo highlighted early warning signs such as emotional exhaustion, detachment, and diminished performance. She provided practical strategies for prevention, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries, engaging in self-care, and fostering social connections. Attendees resonated deeply with these insights, recognizing the challenges of maintaining mental well-being in their demanding roles.
The discussion extended to anxiety and depression, conditions that are often misunderstood or stigmatized in professional environments. Dr. Bangles-Baldo explained their physiological and psychological aspects, emphasizing early intervention and the power of open conversations. She underscored that seeking help is a sign of strength, reinforcing the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace.
To ensure participants left with actionable tools, the seminar incorporated engaging activities such as the Kokology Activity, which explored subconscious thoughts and emotions. Dr. Bangles-Baldo also discussed the science behind mental wellness, explaining how essential hormones—dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins—play a role in regulating emotions and stress responses.
One of the most impactful moments of the seminar was the Straw Tower Activity. While seemingly a simple teamwork exercise, it carried a deeper lesson: just as a stable tower requires a strong foundation and interconnected support, mental resilience relies on self-awareness, adaptability, and a supportive network. The activity highlighted the importance of collaboration, problem-solving, and mutual encouragement in maintaining mental well-being.
Empowering a Culture of Mental Wellness
The seminar concluded with Closing Remarks from JCINSP JOHN WAYLAND M LAPON, who reaffirmed the commitment of BJMP personnel to fostering a mentally healthy work environment. The event was met with positive feedback, with participants expressing gratitude for the valuable insights and practical strategies shared.
The B.R.E.A.T.H.E. program stood as a testament to the shared commitment of the University of Baguio SCJPS, Layad ya Ikigai Life Coaching Services, and the Baguio City Jail Male Dormitory in promoting mental health awareness. The initiative underscored the importance of breaking down barriers surrounding mental health discussions and fostering a culture of support and understanding within the law enforcement and criminal justice communities.
As mental health continues to gain recognition as a critical aspect of professional well-being, such initiatives play a key role in ensuring that those in high-stress professions receive the support they need. The B.R.E.A.T.H.E. program aims to serve as a catalyst for ongoing efforts to promote resilience and emotional well-being, ensuring a healthier and more effective criminal justice system.
