NDKC Guidance Facilitators Attend 62nd PAPCON in Davao City
By: Xyriel C. Tolentino, RPm
In pursuit of continuous professional development and advancement in the field of psychology and guidance services, the Guidance Services, Scholarships, and Testing Center (GSSTC) of Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) participated in the 62nd Psychological Association of the Philippines Annual Convention (PAPCON) held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City, on September 24–26, 2026.
Representing NDKC were Ms. Christen G. Romay, RPm, Elementary Guidance Facilitator; Ms. Loraine F. Anito, RPm, Senior High School Guidance Facilitator; and Mr. Xyriel C. Tolentino, RPm, College Guidance Facilitator. This year’s convention carried the theme, “Elevating Psychological Practice: Professional Development for a Changing World.”
The three-day national convention featured keynote addresses by international speakers Dr. Simone Crowe and Dr. Andik Matulessy, as well as plenary sessions led by prominent figures in Philippine psychology, including Dr. Ma. Regina Hechanova-Alampay, Dr. Allan Bernardo, Dr. Angela V. Regala, Dr. Caring Tarroja, Dr. Hector Perez, and Dr. Meriam P. Cue.
Participants took part in various learning sessions, organized symposia, oral paper presentations, and specialty division and regional chapter meetings. The sessions covered diverse areas of psychology, including updates on the Philippine Psychology Law and discussions on the evolving landscape of psychological practice in the age of artificial intelligence.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Christen G. Romay, RPm, shared:
“PAPCON 2026 was an enriching experience that expanded our understanding of psychology, encouraged continuous professional development, and opened our minds to opportunities for collaboration, research, and growth within the profession.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Loraine F. Anito remarked:
“I learned new ideas and insights that I can directly apply to my work. It served as a meaningful reminder of the importance of continuously learning and improving as a professional.”
For Mr. Xyriel C. Tolentino, RPm, the convention served not only as an avenue for professional advancement and workplace integration but also as a valuable opportunity to reconnect with mentors, former classmates, and colleagues, while building new professional networks with individuals actively contributing to the future of Philippine psychology.
Through participation in high-caliber national conventions such as PAPCON, the NDKC Guidance Services, Scholarships, and Testing Center reaffirms its commitment to continuous professional development and to providing contemporary, research-informed, and compassionate guidance and student support services to the Notre Damean community. Such professional engagements help ensure that NDKC’s student support programs continue to evolve in response to the changing needs and challenges of today’s learners.
