BukSU-CARES launches Wellness Wednesday for University Personnel

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) launched CARES Wellness Wednesday for its personnel on January 28, 2026, establishing a mid-week space for staff to address their mental health needs.

Through the Center for Advocacy, Resilience and Well-Being Services (CARES), the initiative is part of the university’s Smart Workforce agenda, where employees participated in activities focused on psychological safety and emotional resilience.

“This initiative is envisioned as a meaningful movement that creates intentional spaces where members of the Smart BukSU community can pause, reconnect, and strengthen resilience through structured activities conducted every last Wednesday of the month,” Dr. Xyle Fe A. Verbal, Director of BukSU-CARES, stated.

Dr.  Verbal added that the initiative provides personnel across all campuses with support systems to prevent burnout.

“The launching today commenced with booths where employees engaged in quick activities or challenges related to the booth’s theme, encouraging interaction, creativity, and camaraderie among colleagues,” she said.

The CARES Wellness Wednesdays included peer-led discussions about workplace experiences, practical tools for managing daily stress, and information on spiritual and social wellness services.

The implementation followed the university’s commitment and alignment to national and global frameworks on mental health and well-being, particularly Republic Act No. 11036, otherwise known as the Philippine Mental Health Act, which mandates the promotion of mental health and well-being in educational institutions and workplaces. It also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on health and decent work conditions. (BukSU –  Information Unit)