Beyond The Bruises: MSU-IIT hosts first Psychotrauma National Conference

Housed at Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), the National Association for Psychotrauma Workers Corporation (NAPWorC) spearheaded the country’s first Psychotrauma National Conference, bringing together over 200 professionals, researchers, even students from across the Philippines on November 13-14, 2025.

Revolving around the theme “Multi-interdisciplinary Perspectives and Approaches of Psychotrauma Work in the Philippines,” the conference focused on integrating trauma-informed care in schools, workplaces, and institutions, promoting culturally sensitive interventions to empower communities, and advancing research and collaboration to shape national policies that prioritize mental health and psychosocial support.

“A gathering of minds, hearts, and hands—strengthening Filipino individuals,” as articulated by Dr. Pamela Resurreccion, MSU-IIT Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, in her opening remarks. This two-day event featured a series of plenary sessions alongside oral and poster presentations, highlighting research, practices, and collaborative approaches related to psychotrauma work in the country.

Dr. Johnny B. Decatoria, President of NAPWorC, noted that Filipinos continue to bear psychological aftershocks from internal and external traumas, yet their resilience remains unbroken.

“Nevertheless, resilience should never mean enduring,” Dr. Decatoria emphasized.

In line with the mission to build better futures, the conference served as a platform to raise awareness of trauma-informed practices, bridging science and service to strengthen Filipino communities.



Written by Jahara Huban
Proofread by Andrea Ross Sedero