PLDT and Smart Communications, in partnership with the Philippine Mental Health Association, recently conducted a holistic stress management workshop for emergency response frontliners from the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Quezon City Citizens Services Department.
The initiative forms part of PLDT and Smart’s #KonektedForResilience advocacy program, which focuses on strengthening community resilience and disaster preparedness through technology-enabled and people-centered support programs.
The workshop addressed critical mental health challenges commonly experienced by emergency responders, including burnout, secondhand traumatic stress, and emotional fatigue caused by prolonged exposure to crisis situations. Participants were introduced to practical coping strategies, stress management techniques, and wellness practices aimed at improving long-term emotional resilience.
Bianca Perez-Diamante emphasized the importance of mental health support for first responders regularly exposed to emergencies, rescue operations, and trauma cases, especially during severe weather events and disasters.
Meanwhile, Estelita Mañalac highlighted how the workshop reinforced the importance of self-care and stress management in maintaining effective public service operations.
The initiative also included a digital livelihood component through the Smart Retailer program, presented by Smart NCR Wireless Sales. The program enables participants to earn additional income by selling prepaid load and digital services within their communities, helping improve financial resilience among frontliners.
According to Stephanie V. Orlino, the program reflects the companies’ broader commitment to creating safer and more supportive environments not only for communities, but also for the individuals who serve during emergencies and disasters.
PLDT and Smart said the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly Good Health and Well-Being, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals.
