UST Psych embarks the “Road to IncluPSYvity”

by: Faith Martinez

To address ableism and raise awareness and inclusivity towards the Persons with Disability (PWD) community, Thomasian psychology students attended the “Road to IncluPSYvity” event organized by the UST Psychology Society last February 22, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Albertus Magnus - Education Auditorium.

In collaboration with the UST Psychology Department and in coordination with the Office for Student Affairs, UST PsychSoc conducted a 3-hour lecture to immerse the students from different year levels in the PWD community. Two speakers were invited to discuss awareness and inclusivity, as well as their own experiences on the matter.

Inst. Jade Cuambot, MS gave the opening remarks, encouraging the students to “embrace the differences that make us all special.”

In her talk about “Breaking barriers hand-in-hand”, guest speaker Asst. Prof. Kim Medallon, PhD, MHPEd, OTRP discussed the different disorders and psychosocial disabilities, as well as the various laws and strategies to accommodate PWDs, educate the public, and respect their rights and privileges. He ended his talk with a quote from St. Thomas Aquinas, “Better to illuminate than merely to shine.”

The second guest speaker, Ms. Zendy Valencia, LPT, MA, talked about “Heart to Heart. Accessibilities,” which delved into her personal experiences and challenges in her everyday life as a PWD. She also shared her thoughts on how the public facilities and transportation in the country are not accessible enough for PWDs, and how the public is not as educated towards individuals like her. “Helping PWDs can be your opportunity for kindness,” Ms. Valencia noted.

After the lectures, a short Q&A portion with the audience was conducted.The event concluded with the singing of the UST Hymn.