The University of Batangas (UB) Counseling and Psychological Wellness (CoPWell) Center led a vibrant and meaningful 2nd UB Mental Wellness Summit at the UB Auditorium on November 24, 2025, strengthening the university’s commitment to community well-being.
Before the summit began, Hon. Dr. Jose Jonash Luis F. Tolentino, City Councilor and Chair of the Committee on Health of the Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Batangas, expressed that sensitivity to others’ emotional needs must always be considered. He offered the support of the city government to collaborate with UB in addressing mental health issues and highlighted how approaches to mental health vary across generations.
Pinoy Laughter Yoga Founder and the Philippines’ First Laughter Yoga Professor, Mr. Paolo Martin L. Trinidad, energized the crowd as the Session Facilitator for Pinoy Laughter Yoga. Through laughter exercises, he demonstrated how joy can support mental stability and shared insights into the deeper meaning of happiness.
The summit later addressed mental health misconceptions and concerns through a panel discussion featuring mental health experts Mr. Trinidad; Philippine Mental Health Executive Director, Hazel Magpantay, RPsy, GIYA Clinicians, Dr. Imelda Morales-Martin, MHSA, FPPA (LIFE), FPCAM, CFP; and Ms. Jousen P. Dimaano, LPT, RPm, RPsy. They offered guidance for parents, called for proactive action, and shed light on overlooked aspects of mental health to strengthen community awareness.
To enhance UB’s capacity for mental health assistance, UB and the Gabay, Inspirasyon, Yakap, at Adhikain (GIYA) Counseling and Psychological Clinic, Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement. CoPWell and GIYA Clinic Executive Director Dr. Gladiola A. Eje-Dimaculangan, RPsy, RGC, introduced the clinic’s services, which aim to promote holistic wellness within the UB community.
With the theme Laugh Your Hearts Out. Move with the Community. Celebrate Life., UB President Lily Marlene J. Hernandez-Bohn envisioned the partnership as a pathway to more accessible mental health care in the university.
“This partnership reflects our conviction that an excellent university not only nurtures the intellect, but also uplifts the heart and spirit,” President Hernandez-Bohn said. She reminded the community that “every act of kindness, every smile, every shared laughter, and every moment of connection brings us closer to a healthier, more compassionate UB family.”
Beyond the celebration, the partnership strengthens GIYA Clinic’s mission to offer compassionate, high-quality mental health care to the Batangas community, ensuring that no one walks their healing journey alone.
Board of Regents Chairman Atty. Jesus V. Mayo affirmed the university’s commitment to supporting the mental health of the UB community and commended guidance counselors, psychometricians, and psychologists for rising to the challenge of providing dedicated service.
“We know that we have to keep a sound mind in a sound body,” Atty. Mayo said, emphasizing that physical health reinforces mental wellness.
This initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), as UB continues to uphold holistic wellness as a pillar of proactive and meaningful living.