Strengthening its commitment to community-centered health care, the University of Northern Philippines–College of Health Sciences, through its Bachelor of Science in Emergency Health Services (BSEHS) faculty, partnered with CARITAS Nueva Segovia and key civic organizations to deliver a comprehensive medical, dental, optical, legal, and minor surgery mission in the Parish of Nagbukel, Ilocos Sur on March 15, 2026.
Drawing hundreds of parishioners seeking specialized care, the outreach activity saw active participation from BSEHS faculty volunteers, who led an informative lecture on emergency care for the elderly and distributed educational materials to reinforce key health practices. Following the session, the team extended their support to medical, optical, and dental services, helping ensure that each client received prompt attention and accessible, well-coordinated care.
Spearheading the initiative were Assoc. Prof. Maria Yolanda Aquino, BSEHS Program Head, and Prof. Leila Sylvia Bautista, RLE Coordinator, whose leadership ensured the smooth coordination and delivery of activities. They were joined by a committed pool of faculty members—Profs. Greg Quilana, Kriza Rosette Cadorna, Mark Christian Arizala, Evelyn Rafanan, Almira Gonzales, and Vincent Viste—who actively contributed their expertise and support, reinforcing the program’s strong academic and service-oriented foundation.
Aligned with the leadership of University President Dr. Erwin Cadorna and the Dean of the College of Health Sciences Dr. Joussie Bermio, the initiative reinforces the institution’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education)—through sustained information and education campaigns. It likewise advances SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by promoting gender-responsive healthcare delivery and supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened multi-sectoral collaboration.
Through this unified effort, the program not only responds to pressing health and educational needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term community resilience and inclusive development across the province.
Article by Vincent Viste
