First of all, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank PRC, its commissioners and the justices who served as jurors. The process was slightly terrifying but I thank our PRB of Psychology Dr. Villar and Dr. Abrenica and especially our PRB Chair, Dr. Cue for their morale support.
Special guest Pres. Fidel V Ramos reminded us last night that leaders are nothing without a team. The trophy mirrored that message as well, depicting not one, but many people around a flame. I would not be able to do what I do today without the love of support of my family (the Hechanovas and Alampays especially Randi, Kai, Laya Andre and Jam). I also owe so much to my mentors from UP and CMU and colleagues from AdMU and Ateneo CORD for their support and friendship.
We stand on the shoulders who have come before us so I accept the honor in behalf of previous awardees and my fellow nominees who I hold in highest esteem. Most of all, I’d like to thank the PAP, its board, officers and president Dr Marge Alvarez with special thanks to Dr. Ron Resurreccion, Fr. Costa and Dr. Hector Perez who were there last night to cheer me on.
It takes a community to serve communities. The opportunity to serve PAP has been a blessing and has allowed me to work with many psychologists across the country. I’d especially like to share this recognition with those who have been part of developing community resilience interventions whether for disasters or substance use. Thank you for believing in the importance of a public mental health perspective so we can bring psychology closer to those who need it most.
Our lives and talents are all gifts and I do what I do to do to honor Him. But affirmations like these do serve as inspiration to continue using these gifts to serve God and country. #parasaDiyosatbayan