Written By Alisandra Sophia M. Untalan | October 21, 2025
Photographed By Johann Elijah R. Dalit
BPS Welcomes Psykelites in General Assembly, launches Mental Health Initiatives
WITH the theme “Winter Wonderland,” the Bedan Psychological Society (BPS) gathered its members, officers, and faculty for its General Assembly last Oct. 10 at the Rosendo Herrera Hall.
The event served as the organization’s official opening activity for the semester, bringing together Psykelites to set the tone for the academic year. Introducing the newly elected officers, announcements of upcoming events, and program launches, the assembly emphasized student development and community engagement.
In attendance were BPS moderator Prof. Michelle Macahilig and Prof. Rizalia “RAC” General, who expressed their continued support by joining in on the department’s chants, which are part of Psychology’s initiatives during the Integration.
According to Marticia Arao (III-BAP), President, the General Assembly is a semestral requirement that not only introduces the new slate of officers but also launches community programs and gathers support for the Integration.
Arao expressed gratitude to the attendees and reaffirmed her commitment to serving the community during her new term. “I may not be a new face to all of you, but I can assure you that BPS is at your service. Although medyo late na tayo compared to other orgs, I believe in the saying — save the best for last!” she said.
The president also shared her excitement for the organization’s activities. In line with the celebration of World Mental Health Day, the Bedan Psychological Society (BPS) held a three-day series of activities from Oct. 15 to 17 to promote mental health awareness among psychology students.
The event began on Wednesday, Oct. 15, with a Stress Management Seminar led by Ms. Elena Villaroel, a psychology alumna, as part of the first day of Mental Health Awareness activities.
Photographed By Johann Elijah R. Dalit
The second day focused on self-care, featuring an online activity alongside the opening of Bedan Market Day 1.
The celebration concluded on Friday with a Support System Game Booth and Bedan Market Day 2, offering students both interactive and engaging opportunities to reflect on the importance of mental health and community support.
According to the BPS president, the organization “deviated from the usual ‘love languages’ theme observed over the past two years” and instead focused on activities that are “both fun and truly centered on mental health awareness.”
In an interview with THE BEDAN HERALD, Arao further explained that the event’s timing, a day before Integration, was coincidental but well prepared. “Nauna kami mag-plan na October 10 ang GA, so maaga kami nakapaghanda pa noong September pa lang,” she said.
For Lois Faith Publico (I-BAP), an attendee of the assembly, the program became a space for growth and leadership while emphasizing accountability. “Huwag basta mag-sign up sa isang commitment kung hindi mo kayang tuparin ’yung role mo,” she advised. “Hindi lang ikaw ang maaapektuhan—pati buong Psych Department.
Concluding the assembly, Macahilig reaffirmed the department’s commitment to its students, reminding them that they can always seek assistance from her and other psychology faculty members whenever needed. “Whenever you need help, just come to us,” she assured.
Volume 31 | Issue 4
