Zamboanga del Sur – The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) in partnership with Good Life Psychological Services and Makati Med Foundation launched “Project Best Life” last November 19, 2021 to give premium to the mental health and well-being of its soldiers and their dependents.
In his welcome remarks, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera emphasized the importance of Mental Health for soldiers.
“This Project will provide an avenue for understanding the soldiers’ potential annd strengthen their resilience to cope up with the challenges and demands of their military and professional lives,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.
The project launching was graced by Col. Jose Randolf Sino Cruz, Assistant Division Commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division. In his message, Col. Sino Cruz commended 53IB for giving premium to the soldiers’ mental health.
Anchored on the Philippine Army Mental Health Program (PAMHP), Project Best Life is a research-based Mental Health and Physical Wellness Project that aims to provide a venue for counseling and psychoeducation related to understanding the self, stress, PTSD, and healthy coping tools.
The rationale of the Project was given by Dr. Moibe Olitres, RGC while the Project Concept was presented by Cpt. Cornelio Cortejo Jr., 53IB’s Personnel Officer.
Messages of Support were also given by the Philippine Army’s Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel (G1) Col. Ramon Flores; Army Chief Surgeon Col. Joen Enrico Anastacio; Ms. Marge Barro from Makati Med Foundation; and 1ID’s Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel Col. Manuel Gador.
This activity is part of the 53IB’s drive to strategically communicate the Army’s transformation to become world class that is a source of national pride by 2028 in line with the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR).
(Source: 53rd infantry Battalion P.A)