“KAAGBAY NIMO”: Psychological First Aid 2026

The San Pablo Quick Response Team of San Pablo Parish, Juna Subdivision, successfully conducted Psychological First Aid (PFA) last February 10, 2026, at the Yakal Gym following the fire incident in Malamboon. In collaboration with the CSWDO and BERT 76-A volunteers, we created a safe, welcoming, and child-friendly space for children who were distressed, confused, or separated from their usual sense of security because of the incident. A second PFA session was held in Punta Dumalag, Matina, last February 14, 2026, where several families affected by the February 8, 2026 fire were temporarily staying. These activities provided a safe outlet for children to release tension and process their experiences in a gentle and supportive environment.

Through simple and age-appropriate activities such as drawing, coloring, paper-cutting, and guided emotion identification, the children were given an opportunity to express their feelings at their own pace. These creative methods helped them communicate what they could not yet put into words and allowed volunteers to recognize signs of distress. Moreover, this initiative aims to strengthen the emotional resilience of the community, especially among the young. By providing a space where children feel seen, heard, and safe, we help nurture their inner hope and support their ability to move forward rather than remain overwhelmed by the traumatic event. In line with the Synodality of the Church as emphasized by our Youth Spiritual Director—Rev. Msgr. Julius C. Rodulfa, and DAYCA Director—Rev. Fr. Junnel E. Bustamante, “We are together in this journey.” Kaagbay mi nimo sa tanang kahimtang.

However, I must also emphasize that Psychological First Aid is not psychotherapy. Our role is not to conduct clinical treatment nor diagnosing any signs and symptoms using the DSM-5 book, but we were deployed to listen with compassion, ensure immediate emotional support, reconnect children with their families, and refer those who need further care to the appropriate mental health professionals.

Through collective effort and compassionate presence, this response became more than an activity—it became a reminder that in times of crisis, the community can come together to protect not only physical safety but also the emotional well-being of its most vulnerable members.

Our warmest gratitude goes to Sir Rhoderick G. Hernandez of Arko 02 for encouraging and guiding us to take our training at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. Because of this opportunity, the San Pablo Quick Response Team was better prepared to serve the community in times of crisis.

The San Pablo Quick Response Team volunteers are also deeply thankful to our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Dioscoro R. Saniel, and to Msgr. Julius Rodulfa, our Formation Priest-in-Charge and Youth Spiritual Director, for their constant support and guidance. Their presence continues to inspire us to reach out, accompany, and care for the children and youth with compassion and dedication.

For those who wish to extend their donations to the individuals affected by the recent fire incident, you may visit the Parish Office, which is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Those who would like to share donations specifically for the children—such as coloring materials, bond papers, construction papers, glue, pencils, and toys—may directly contact Sir Rhoderick G. Hernandez at 09999919724. Your generosity and kindness will greatly help in bringing comfort and hope to the families and children in need. (Sophia Beatrice V. Sison | DRRM Arko 160—San Pablo Quick Response Team)