The Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), through the College of Arts and Sciences Extension Program, in collaboration with the Barangay Local Government Unit of Tabuc-Tubig, launched on February 28, 2026, the second phase of Himsug ug Mabungahon Barangay Tabuc-Tubig and the opening of the Mental Health Desk.

The extension program will benefit vulnerable adults, senior citizens, and youth through lectures on mental health–related issues, in line with the program’s objectives to strengthen the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in response to the needs and challenges of the residents. These include: SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being; SDG 5 – Gender Equality; SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions; and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, all of which address the needs of the residents of Brgy. Tabuc-Tubig.

The Barangay Mental Health Desk program was made possible through the support of City Councilor Bernice Anne Asenas-Elmaco, who authored and passed the City Ordinance on Extended Mental Health Services for Barangays.

The NORSU team, headed by Project Leader Dr. Nora Maria Elena Osmeña, is composed of Dr. Aloha Tolin, Dr. Marissa Salgado, Dr. Jose Rene Cepe, Dr. Maria Dolores Paculanang, Asst. Prof. Roche Cabanlit, and University Instructors Carlo Gadingan, Dulce Maria Rosario De Guzman, and Bern Anne Rhea Escorial. The team presented various topics centered on Psychological First Aid and other discussions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Also present during the launching were NORSU Vice President for Research Development and Extension Dr. Edwin Romano, Campus Director Dr. Ryan Tayco, and members of the faculty and staff. The NORSU team likewise acknowledged the support of University President Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi for the successful implementation of this project. Barangay Tabuc-Tubig Chairman Randy M. Fausto was joined by members of the Barangay Council.