SU Psychosocial team extends support to Typhoon Tino survivors in Cebu
The Silliman University Psychosocial Processing (PSP) Team, in partnership with University of Cebu–Banilad Campus, conducted a two-day psychosocial support activity for evacuees and survivors affected by Typhoon Tino on December 3-4, 2025 at the Sto. Niño de Cebu Parish in Mohon, Talisay City, Cebu.
Originally scheduled to serve communities impacted by the September 30, 2025 earthquake in Northern Cebu, the activity was redirected in response to the widespread devastation brought by Typhoon Tino. In coordination with its partner institution in Cebu, the PSP initiative was carried out in areas identified as most affected, particularly along the Mananga River.
With the support of the parish priest, Fr. Roy Aspera, the psychosocial sessions involved a total of 285 participants from Barangays Biasong, Mohon, and Pooc, many of whom were either evacuees or families who had returned to makeshift homes.
The 29-member PSP Team was composed of Silliman University faculty members, counselors, staff, students, and alumni from various academic units and offices, including the College of Nursing; College of Arts and Sciences–Psychology and English Departments; Divinity School; Office of Student Services; Office of Community Engagement and Service Learning; and Silliman Church. The team was led by Dr. Edna Gladys Calingacion, with Dr. Theresa A. Guino-o serving as co-team leader.
Participants were grouped according to age and sector—adults, senior citizens and persons with disabilities, teenagers, and children—to ensure appropriate psychosocial interventions. Following the established PSP process guide, adults engaged in facilitated storytelling sessions, while children and teens participated in age-appropriate therapeutic activities. Each small group was handled by trained facilitators and process observers to help mitigate trauma, promote emotional expression, and foster resilience.
The activity was coordinated directly with Mr. Francis Jose Lean Abayata, Student Affairs Director of the University of Cebu–Banilad Campus, and received institutional support from Dean Ofelia G. Mana, Vice-Chancellor for Business Development and Innovation and Campus Affairs Director. Implementation was carried out in collaboration with the Community Awareness Relations and Extension Services (CARES) Office of UC-Banilad, led by Ms. Marijoy Yaun, together with Mr. Ben Simon Robles of the UC Pardo–Talisay Campus.
The psychosocial intervention forms part of Silliman University’s Continuing Calamity Response Program, which consists of three components: relief assistance, psychosocial intervention, and rehabilitation or rebuilding. The PSP component specifically aims to help individuals and families cope with trauma, restore a sense of safety, and strengthen community well-being in the aftermath of disasters.
The University also acknowledged the support of partner organizations and donors, including the School of Basic Education for the school kits; Silliman Schools and Colleges for the dignity packs; the Philippine Nurses Association–Negros Oriental Chapter for the school kits and dignity packs for teens; and the Rotary Club of Dumaguete East for the additional dignity packs.
(PHOTOS: Franz Wilfred Acaylar & Myke Kristoffer Catilogo)
