The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) College of Nursing reaffirmed its commitment to building resilient and health-conscious communities through the C-A-R-E Program (Community Assistance, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment) under Project Nalasin: “Salun-at Ipateg Para iti Komunidad a Natalged,” [Valuing Health for a Safe Community]. Conducted at Barangay Camanggaan, Sitio Nalasin, on October 10 and 13, 2025, the series of community extension activities focused on readiness, wellness, and culturally attuned caregiving.
The session, themed “Mastering the Basics: Skills in Vital Signs Taking,” was led by Prof. Jevie Abella and Dr. Rolly Agup, who guided participants through the principles and techniques of monitoring pulse, temperature, respiration, and blood pressure. It was attended by barangay officials and barangay health workers.
Complementing this technical training were two insightful lectures: Prof. Cherry Banilad presented “Promoting Gender-Responsive Approaches in Community Care,” highlighting inclusivity and shared responsibility, while Prof. Soren Avila discussed “Respecting Traditions: Cultural Perspectives in Caring for the Sick,” emphasizing how Ilocano caregiving practices can harmonize with evidence-based health approaches.
To further strengthen community safety, a Basic First Aid Training and Health Kit Distribution was also held on the same day and on October 13, 2025, also attended by the same participants. Prof. Matt Cabanting and Prof. Christian Paul Bueno facilitated the sessions, guiding participants through hands-on demonstrations and return demonstrations on Basic First Aid and emergency response. The activity also featured a lecture by Prof. Rizza Abinsay on “Compassionate Care: Gender-Responsive and Culturally Aware First Aid,” promoting empathy, inclusivity, and respect in caregiving.
To reinforce preparedness, health kits containing blood pressure apparatus and pulse oximeters were distributed to assist barangay health workers in providing timely health monitoring and emergency response within the community.