The University of Northern Philippines’ College of Health Sciences (CHS) celebrated its 33rd Founding Anniversary with an international seminar highlighting global collaboration in health education and practice.
The celebration, held on November 13, 2025 at the UNP Gymnasium was mounted in collaboration with Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (UNUSA) of Indonesia. Anchored on the theme “Global Synergy in Health Sciences: Advancing Emergency Care, Maternal Health, and Diagnostic Excellence,” the event accentuated the growing international cooperation in enhancing healthcare education and practice.
The program commenced with remarks from UNP President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, College of Health Sciences Dean Dr. Joussie Bermio, and International Affairs Director Dr. Sally A. Jarin, who collectively emphasized the urgent need for unified, responsive, and innovative strategies in addressing evolving global health challenges. Their messages underscored the vital role of academic institutions in shaping competent health practitioners and fostering international cooperation in medical education and practice.
The seminar formed a significant highlight of the CHS 33rd Founding Anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Ignite: Rekindling the Spirit of Health, Service, and Unity.” Anchored on this vision, the event sought to strengthen collaboration, advance health science scholarship, and inspire a renewed commitment to public service among students, faculty, and partner institutions.
A roster of distinguished local and international experts delivered in-depth presentations throughout the seminar. CHS alumnus Dr. Fitz Gerald Castillo opened the discussions with “HIV and STDs: Two Common Epidemics; One Common Ground,” underscoring the urgency of sustained awareness, prevention initiatives, and patient-centered care. From Indonesia, Ms. Elly Dwi Masita followed with a talk on “Cultural and Ethical Factors: Dimensions Often Overlooked,” emphasizing how cultural understanding and ethical decision-making critically influence the quality of healthcare delivery.
Mr. Christian Valdez expanded the dialogue through his presentation on “The Culture of Civility in Health Care,” highlighting that respect, professionalism, and positive workplace relationships are indispensable to strong teamwork and improved patient outcomes. Complementing this, Dr. Junel Bryan Arre Bajet spoke on “Cultural Sensitivity in Health Care,” explaining that cultural awareness fosters trust, enhances communication, and supports holistic patient care.
Rounding off the lineup, Dr. Sharmaine Reintar presented “Global Readiness and European Work Opportunities for Health Professionals,” inspiring participants to explore international career pathways while championing Filipino expertise, values, and work ethic.
The seminar gathered students, faculty, alumni, and institutional partners in a shared platform for learning and collaboration, further strengthening CHS’s commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and community-centered service.
Article by Ace Danielle Avero, Photo by Mark Rayvhin Anyog.
