The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) sponsored the Global Health Dialogue Series on July 17, 2025, at Tadena Hall, showcasing a significant convergence of ideas, cultures, and public health breakthroughs. This significant event, conducted in a hybrid format, was a collaboration effort between UNP and Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (UNUSA) in Indonesia, led by the UNP-College of Nursing. This initiative was conceived by Dr. Edelyn A. Cadorna, Director of University Research and Development, whose goal for worldwide academic exchange and healthcare innovation motivated this international debate.
The event, themed “Building Healthier Nations Together: Global Nursing Dialogue for Public Health Progress,” convened approximately 250 participants, comprising students from UNP and UNUSA, alongside registered nurses and public health professionals from diverse health institutions throughout Ilocos Sur and adjacent provinces. The program functioned as a comprehensive platform for critical discussions on global health systems, emerging diseases, healthcare technologies, and nursing education.
In her opening remarks, Assistant Dean Prof. Mercedes P. Anicas emphasized the significance of the event as a venue for substantive dialogue. “As we participate in substantive discourse today, let us seize this opportunity to glean insights from one another’s distinct contexts, viewpoints, and innovations.” “In our discussions regarding health systems, emerging diseases, healthcare technology, or education and community health, let us be guided by mutual respect, curiosity, and a collective commitment to the common good,” she articulated.
Three prominent speakers conducted the day’s enlightening seminars. Professor Siti Nur Hasina of UNUSA imparted her knowledge on the incorporation of spiritual care within public health, emphasizing non-pharmacological strategies for enhancing the psychological well-being of individuals with diabetes mellitus. Dr. Joanne C. Jaramillo, Department Head of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, delivered a presentation on the education of nurses as leaders in public health within a worldwide context. Dr. Nurul Kamariyah, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery at UNUSA, addressed the enhancement of communities via culturally responsive nursing education, utilizing Indonesia’s experiences as a reference.
In his motivational address, UNP President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna praised the project and emphasized the significance of global involvement in health education. “During these transformative times, it is through dialogue, collaboration, and open-mindedness that we can influence the future of public health.” “This event serves as a reminder that education and empathy transcend borders and constitute the universal currencies of progress,” he stated.
The event culminated in an open forum and the presentation of certificates, succeeded by the closing remarks of Dr. Francis Don L. Nero, Dean of UNP College of Nursing. He recognized the cooperative ethos that contributed to the event’s success and urged participants to maintain the momentum in their professional endeavors. This assembly has ignited innovative concepts and reinforced our commitment to advocate for public health via education, research, and service. He remarked, “Let us apply today’s insights in our classrooms, clinics, and communities as we endeavor to enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment in care.”
The success of the Global Health Dialogue Series has strengthened the academic cooperation between UNP and UNUSA, reaffirming their mutual commitment to fostering healthier, more resilient nations through education, collaboration, and compassion.
