Probation and Parole Officers (PPOs) from the Department of Justice Parole and Probation Administration in Region 1 received Training on Wellness, Suicide Prevention, and Professional Growth. The event held at J and V Resort, Sevilla, City of San Fernando, La Union, on July 18-19, 2024, aimed to equip officers with the necessary tools to enhance their well-being while managing the complexities of their crucial roles within the criminal justice system.
The training session, led by Prof. Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo, a registered Guidance Counselor, and Psychometrician, centered on Debriefing Strategies as Effective Support for PPOs. The training addressed several key objectives: (1) Understanding the Function and Recognizing the Impact, (2) Highlighting Challenges, (3) Promoting a Culture of Self-Care, (4) Providing Resources, and (5) Celebrating the Contribution. Prof. Barbadillo, in her closing message, said, “Understanding the profound influence you have on the lives of those you supervise is key to appreciating the importance of your work”.
Dr. Romeo C. Opeña Jr., Training Chief of Continuing Professional Education, also contributed to the training with a presentation on “Career Development of Government Employees.” His session focused on navigating the Open University System and exploring opportunities for upskilling, retooling, and cross-skilling, offering participants valuable insights into professional growth within the government sector. As the distance education arm of DMMMSU, OUS has produced diverse graduates from various walks of life.
In addition to the core training, a special session on “Race Against Suicide Among Parolees and Probationers” was conducted in collaboration with the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association, La Union Chapter. This critical session was headed by the chapter’s President, Filomena Obana, and the chapter’s Public Relations Officer, Prof. Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo. The session provided officers with essential tools and strategies to identify and support at-risk individuals under their supervision, reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness and intervention.
The comprehensive training not only equipped officers with strategies for effective support and debriefing but also emphasized the importance of mental health, self-care, and continuous professional development, leaving them better prepared to fulfill their crucial roles in the criminal justice system. (By Claudia Denise Barbadillo)
