The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XII conducted a three-day training on Psychological First Aid (PFA) in Disasters and Emergencies for 56 third-year Social Work students of Central Mindanao Colleges on October 28–30, 2026.

The training was held upon the request of the college as part of its Social Work Elective 301 subject, providing students with essential knowledge and practical skills in delivering initial psychosocial support to individuals and families affected by crises, disasters, and emergency situations.

The 56 participants, all pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, were trained to better understand and respond to the psychosocial needs of people experiencing distress during emergencies.

The activity aimed to prepare future social workers to provide appropriate psychosocial assistance to affected individuals and communities, particularly in times when immediate support is crucial.

The training also forms part of broader efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and response by equipping aspiring social work professionals with the skills needed to assist vulnerable communities.

Through the training, DSWD Field Office XII continues to promote capacity-building and collaboration with academic institutions in preparing future social workers for their role in disaster response and emergency assistance.