Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has entered into a partnership with the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) for the mental health services among police personnel through the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on June 19 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Hall.

Under the MoU, MMSU, through the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) Guidance and Counseling, Career Unit, and Graduate School’s (GS) Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling, will collaborate with INPPO in developing and implementing a program to enhance the psychological well-being and resilience of Ilocos Norte police personnel.

The program aims to build resilience, reduce mental health disorders, and foster a supportive environment free of stigma, tailored to the needs of police personnel. It will include mental health training, peer support, regular screenings, stigma reduction campaigns, and support for the families of officers.

Through the partnership, MMSU will provide supervised practicum experiences for graduate students in the guidance and counseling program, reduce the incidence of mental health issues among police officers, and create a supportive environment within the INPPO.

MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. and INPPO Acting Provincial Director Orly Pagaduan led the signing of the partnership. GS Dean Doreen Domingo, represented by GS Secretary Winicel Ancheta, Guidance, Counseling, and Career Center Chief Geraldeen Pascual, Provincial Chief of Ilocos Norte PFU PLTCOL Minerva Grace Balao-as, Team Leader of Ilocos Norte PMDT PLT Sheena Odette Patayan, and other personnel from both institutions witnessed the signing.

Dr. Manzano emphasized the partnership's importance, as it will benefit both the guidance and counseling faculty and students, while also providing mental health services through INPPO.

He also stated that this partnership will be incorporated into the university’s peace and security policy and requested that the MoU be extended for five years instead of just two years.  

“Our main goal is to have a secure, safe, and peaceful academic community. We commit to functionalize this MoU and be guided by all the contents,” Dr. Manzano said.

INPPO Director Paguadan noted they are more than ready to cooperate in strengthening the point of increase and cohesiveness in the partnership.

MMSU is offering the MA in Guidance and Counseling, designed to equip students with knowledge and skills to become professionally trained guidance counselors who will support individuals’ academic, personal, and career development across all settings.