Tacloban: The Department of Education (DepEd) has been conducting Psychological First Aid (PFA) sessions for teachers and learners to help restore a sense of safety, calm, and hope following the deadly mass shooting at San Jose National High School on June 22.
According to Philippines News Agency, the three-day PFA intervention began on Wednesday, bringing together school personnel and students affected by the shooting that left three students dead and 20 others injured. DepEd Tacloban Schools Division senior guidance coordinator Julienne Rosa Saballa stated that the PFA sessions have reached 110 teaching and non-teaching personnel, 352 students who directly witnessed the shooting, and around 1,300 other students who were on campus during the incident.
"PFA is a humane and supportive response for people experiencing stress. It is essential for students to express themselves because these emotions may affect them later in life. What they experienced was an abnormal and traumatic event," Saballa said. The sessions are being held at nearby churches in Tacloban City's San Jose district, including St. Roch the Healer Parish and San Jose Parish. They are facilitated by DepEd nurses, trained school guidance counselors, psychiatrists, and non-governmental organization professionals.
Participants engage in storytelling activities, share their feelings, express emotions through art, and receive counseling. "The activity creates a safe and supportive environment where participants can express their emotions, process their experiences, and receive appropriate psychosocial support. Through empathy, active listening, and compassionate care, the PFA team seeks to help restore a sense of safety," Saballa added.
DepEd follows the globally recognized PFA framework anchored on three key principles: look, listen, and link. "Look" involves assessing safety and identifying those needing urgent assistance. "Listen" means paying close attention without pressure, validating feelings, and helping individuals feel safe. "Link" connects affected individuals to information, practical assistance, social support, or professional mental health services. Saballa mentioned that DepEd will also train teachers on helping students cope with trauma when classes resume next week.
