VSU Partners with PGCA-EV for Inaugural Eastern Visayas Guidance and Counseling Convention
Visayas State University (VSU) has entered into a formal partnership with the Eastern Visayas Chapter of the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association (PGCA-EV) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on August 20, 2025. This collaboration will enable the First Annual Regional General Assembly and Convention for counselors and mental health advocates in Eastern Visayas, set to take place at VSU from September 17 to 19, 2025.
Signing of the Agreement
The signing of the agreement was conducted by Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes on behalf of VSU and Ms. Marwen A. Castañeda, the Chapter President of PGCA-EV. The event was witnessed by Ms. Chona A. Brit, Director of the VSU Guidance and Counseling Office, and Kent Jan A. Beldia, Coordinator of Counseling & Responsive Care, who is also overseeing the convention’s organization.
Convention Goals and Themes
The convention aims to be the largest assembly of mental health professionals in Region 8, where participants will partake in lectures and workshops focused on the theme “New Trajectories in Counseling and Psychosocial Support for Glocal Impact.” The sessions are designed to address recent developments in the field and enhance practical skills applicable in various contexts.
Background on PGCA-EV
PGCA-EV is recognized as the regional branch of the national Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association. Originally founded as PGCA-Tacloban in 1988, it was incorporated under the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2023, adopting the name Eastern Visayas Chapter. This year’s convention is particularly noteworthy as it represents the chapter’s inaugural regional event in its 37-year history.
Support and Networking Opportunities
Support for the convention is being provided by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (OVPSAS) and the VSU Guidance and Counseling Office, both of which have been instrumental in promoting mental health advocacy in the region. In addition to facilitating professional networking, the convention aims to offer mental health practitioners a platform to reassess their roles in a changing environment and cultivate networks for delivering locally relevant psychosocial support informed by global perspectives.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals
The event also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequality (SDG 10), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
(Source: VSU)
