Health-focused development organization Americares Philippines will continue providing psychological support to residents still coping with trauma from the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on Sept. 30.
The renewed effort follows the group’s deployment of mental health teams to the towns of Medellin, Bogo, and Borbon in October, where they assisted vulnerable sectors, including children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Under its Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Program (MHPSS), Americares has been conducting sessions designed to foster emotional recovery, build resilience, and strengthen local mental-health support systems.
In a recent interview with the Philippine News Agency, Americares’ mental health consultant and psychologist, Dr. Robert Cañete, said the organization plans to return in the coming weeks to reassess the situation of survivors.
“Usually, a month after the event is a good time to go back and see how people are doing because some may be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder, and we need to identify those who are suffering from it,” Cañete explained.
He added that the next round of missions will put greater emphasis on child survivors, noting that only a limited number were accommodated during their initial visit.
“Our assessment is that most adults are coping well, but many children were missed. We will look for ways to ensure they receive the support they need,” he said.
Americares is currently working with the Archdiocese of Cebu and the parish priest of San Remigio, and is seeking additional partners to help expand mental health support for affected communities. (PNA)