GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — After the successful mental health caravan in Cebu City, the biggest convergence of students, educators, and local government leaders advocating mental health support in General Santos City occurred through the initiative of DigiPlus Foundation, formerly known as BingoPlus Foundation, under its KalusaganPLUS Accessible Healthcare program. The caravan marked a significant step in strengthening community-led responses to mental health concerns, particularly at the grassroots level, where support is often limited.
Dubbed “Amuma,” a Visayan word meaning “to care or nurture,” the caravan brought together more than 500 participants, including teachers, students, LGU representatives, youth leaders, and community workers. The caravan was designed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and equip communities with practical tools for empathy and early support, empowering participants to respond appropriately when someone in their family, school, or workplace is experiencing psychological distress.
Dr. Abelardo Banuag, Founder of Paglaum Mental Health Group, a licensed psychiatrist, and the keynote speaker of Amuma,
emphasized the importance of early awareness and community action in mental health care, encouraging participants to build cultures of compassion and confidence in responding to psychological distress.
“Mental health care should not begin only when there is a crisis. It must start with awareness, conversation, compassion, and the confidence to act,” said Paul Tamayo, Program Manager for Health and Resilience Pillar of the DigiPlus Foundation. “Through Amuma, we are strengthening communities by giving them the language, understanding, and practical skills to support one another. This is how we make care accessible, especially at the grassroots.”
Speakers from different generations share perspectives on mental health during a multi-generational dialogue session, highlighting how awareness and support systems evolve from Boomers to Gen Z.
One of the key highlights of the Amuma was its multi-generational dialogue, where community speakers discussed how mental healthcare is experienced, understood and addressed across generations from Boomers to Gen Z. By surfacing shared experiences and generational differences, the sessions helped participants better understand the evolving challenges of mental well-being and the kind of support each
generation’s needs.
The role of teachers, students, and LGUs as frontline advocates of mental health were also emphasized, recognizing their influence in shaping safe, supportive environments in schools and communities.
Supported by the office of Vice Mayor Edmar Yumang of General Santos City, he welcomed the initiative and underscored its importance to the city. “Programs like Amuma help strengthen our community’s ability to care for one another,” Hon. Yumang said. “By opening conversations on mental health and equipping our people with the right knowledge, we are building a city that is more compassionate, responsive, and resilient.”
Winners of the slogan-making contest were recognized on stage, recognizing youth voices that creatively champion awareness, empathy, and stigma-free conversations on mental health within their communities.
As part of its continuing commitment to accessible mental health support in the country, DigiPlus Foundation encouraged participants to utilize EmbracePLUS, the Foundation’s mental health support platform that offers safe spaces for listening, guidance, and connection to professional help. The initiative reinforces the message that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The Foundation reminded communities that empathy can save lives and that no one has to face their struggles alone. Through Amuma and EmbracePLUS, the Foundation continues to champion a future where Filipinos feel supported, understood, and empowered to seek help when they need it most.
For the latest updates on the DigiPlus Foundation, as well as inquiries regarding coordination, assistance, or partnership opportunities, please contact the Foundation via its official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/BingoPlusFoundation/.
About DigiPlus Interactive Corp.
DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. For more information, visit www.digiplus.com.ph
About DigiPlus Foundation
DigiPlus Foundation is the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corporation, a Philippine-based digital entertainment company. Its mission is to “multiply the good” by implementing community programs and services that uplift lives and contribute to a digitally advanced and resilient nation. For more information, visit https://digiplus.com.ph/bingoplus-foundation/
