Guidance workshop builds emotional awareness among learners

Basic Education Department Guidance and Testing Office of Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation facilitated an Interactive Group Stories activity at the BED EMRC to help junior and senior high school students strengthen emotional awareness and interpersonal connections, Dec. 1.

Nine of the 30 selected students participated in the session, which focused on recognizing emotions, understanding their causes and managing them in healthy ways.

Sherie Anne Gayeta introduced the discussion on emotional understanding and explained how emotions influence thoughts, behaviors and relationships. She emphasized that identifying feelings and expressing them appropriately helps develop emotional intelligence and improves communication.

“Being aware of our emotions helps us make better decisions and connect more effectively with others,” Gayeta said.

Charmaine San Miguel and Andrea Nicole Saberola then facilitated a group activity that encouraged students to share personal experiences and reflections. Participants divided into two groups and answered guided questions about academic progress, family relationships, friendships, career aspirations and trusted support systems.

Students openly shared their perspectives during the discussion. Some participants spoke about doing well academically, while others shared interests in animation, art and other personal pursuits. Several also discussed challenges in relationships with classmates or family members and how they continue working toward positive connections.

Organizers said the activity allowed students from different grade levels to form new friendships and support one another through empathy and understanding. Participants left the session with improved awareness of how to recognize and regulate their emotions.

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The activity reflected the University’s core values of Mindfulness, Unity and Service by encouraging empathy, emotional awareness and supportive peer relationships. It also supported holistic and student-centered education by equipping learners with emotional intelligence skills that contribute to personal and academic success.

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: The session promoted emotional health and positive coping strategies among students.

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: The program strengthened social and emotional learning essential for holistic development.

• SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: The activity fostered respectful dialogue and understanding within the school community.