OSAS trains peer facilitators in empowerment workshop

The Office of Student Affairs and Services–Guidance and Counseling Office of Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation conducted another session of its I.C.A.R.E. training series on Feb. 20, focusing on “Empowered Ako S.A.-EU: Strengthening Abilities of EU Peers” to develop leadership and support skills among trained peer facilitators.

Student facilitators from different academic units participated in the workshop, which emphasized self-discovery and confidence as essential qualities for supporting fellow students.

Kristine Gail Riego served as resource speaker and led discussions on empowerment, self-awareness, empathy and leadership. She explained that understanding one’s strengths helps peer facilitators provide meaningful support to others.

“Empowerment begins with recognizing your own strengths and believing that your abilities can make a difference in the lives of others,” Riego said.

Participants engaged in reflective discussions where they shared personal strengths and identified areas for growth. The activity encouraged students to appreciate individual differences and examine how their qualities shape their role as peer supporters.

April Marquez, guidance counselor and activity chairperson, delivered the closing remarks and thanked the facilitators and participants for their commitment to the program.

“Your role as peer facilitators is important because your presence can remind others that they are not alone,” Marquez said, urging students to continue practicing empathy and compassion beyond the workshop.

The training formed part of the University’s continuing effort to strengthen peer support systems and foster a caring campus environment.

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The initiative reflected the University’s core values of Mindfulness, Unity and Service by equipping students with the empathy and leadership skills needed to support their peers. It also supported student-centered education by empowering learners to become active contributors to a compassionate campus community.

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: The training strengthened peer support systems that promote mental health awareness and early assistance.

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: The program developed leadership, self-awareness and interpersonal competencies among student facilitators.

• SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: Encouraging empathy and peer leadership fostered an inclusive and supportive campus culture.