From May 6 to June 16, 2025, the INA Healing Center (IHC), in partnership with the City Government of Valenzuela, successfully implemented the enhanced Grief Management and Support Program (GMSP), the first LGU-based rollout of its revised grief sessions.
Previously known as the “Grief Recovery Session,” the updated program was designed to offer a more focused, cohesive, and empowering experience for those dealing with the loss of loved ones. The revamped manual, now condensed into five sessions instead of the previous seven, retains the foundation of William Worden’s “Tasks of Mourning”, a proven psychological framework that guides individuals through specific tasks that help them process grief and begin healing.
Rather than aiming to forget, the approach encourages participants to acknowledge their grief, find meaning, and rebuild their lives while holding space for the memory of those they’ve lost.
“This version is more practical, more responsive,” IHC head Maribeth Juliet Salinas, Social Welfare Officer III said.
“It really allows people to reflect deeply and engage more fully in the process — and that’s exactly what we saw here in Valenzuela,” Salinas added.
The pilot program served seven clients, mostly widows, who came together weekly to share stories, navigate difficult emotions, and support each other. Volunteers and facilitators reported a more seamless session flow, with participants showing greater openness and vulnerability as the weeks progressed.
Each session was carefully evaluated through a collaborative process involving IHC staff, the LGU’s designated focal person, and peer support mentors, who offered observations, feedback, and recommendations to refine future implementations.
The success of the Valenzuela rollout would not have been possible without strong community backing. The City Social Welfare and Development Office provided transportation, food, and essential materials, while the Barangay Marulas Council generously offered their conference room as a safe and private venue for the group sessions.
“We’re deeply grateful for the City of Valenzuela’s commitment to supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of their constituents. Their support speaks volumes about the value they place on compassionate, community-centered care, “ IHC head Salinas expressed.
Encouraged by the outcome, the INA Healing Center now plans to expand the enhanced GMSP to other LGUs across Metro Manila and nearby provinces. With several sessions already being scheduled in additional barangays, the team hopes to extend a lifeline to more grieving individuals into one community at a time.
“This is just the beginning. Healing takes time, but with the right support, no one has to go through it alone,” Salinas concluded.
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