with a theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas; Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, patutunayan!,” the Agricultural Training Institute – Cordillera Administrative Region (ATI-CAR) conducted its annual Gender and Development Learning Session among its staff entitled “Liberating Perspectives: Using Gender Lens for Operations,” last March 4, 2024 at Aspulan Hall of RTC-ATI-CAR.
As part of the frontline advocates for agriculture, ATI staff were prone to different stressors which can lead to low performance rates and productivity, therefore it is necessary to integrate different stress management to maintain a sense of balance and resilience.
Relative to this, the said two-day event was attended by all ATI-CAR staff which aims to allow them to be more open with such discussion, especially on mental health, different positive coping mechanisms, and self-care.
In her overview of the training, Ms. Jam Balingan, Head of the Career Development Management Section and GAD Focal Person, emphasized the importance of discussing stress management in operations and how it can uplift the performance of employees in an organization.
Further, Ms. Chita Habon, Executive Director of Child and Family Services Philippines Inc., discussed and introduced key concepts on stress management; implications of the generational gap; positive coping mechanisms; and the importance and effects of self-care.
Also, she highlighted the importance of understanding stress and its coping mechanism in a workspace.
“Mapalawa diyay knowledge, skill, ken attitude towards it [stress management] because stress management is not only for work but we can use it daily,” Habon shared.
In addition, participants answered a love language test and general wellness worksheet to assess themselves to be aware of their current mental status and understand potential triggers that cause stress among them based on the results of their test activity.
Subsequently, after the discussions, a series of group activities were organized to build connections with their colleagues.
Meanwhile, according to Ms. Lorna Alboc, Assistant for Technical Operations of ATI-CAR, the event became a platform for them to discuss better ways to manage their stress as an employee who deals with different types of clients and their daily interactions as well.
Furthermore, an awarding ceremony will be held on March 25, 2024, to award performing women in the center to recognize their valuable contribution and service to the success of the training institute and for upholding women’s rights and values.
