The University of Northern Philippines, through its College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Bachelor of Science in Biology program, partnered with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)–Ilocos Sur to conduct a hands-on training on Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid on November 10, 2026 at the CAS Function Hall for third-year BS Biology students and faculty members.
Guided by the theme “Bridging Biological knowledge and lifesaving skills: Preparing future healthcare professionals for emergency responses,” the training provided participants with practical knowledge and skills in handling medical emergencies. Key topics included cardiopulmonary resuscitation, proper techniques for managing choking incidents, and the correct use of an automated external defibrillator, equipping participants with essential competencies to respond promptly and effectively to life-threatening situations.
The program opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Charo Rojas, Head of the BS Biology program, followed by an inspirational message from CAS Dean Dr. Grace Garcia, who stressed the importance of equipping students with practical lifesaving knowledge and emergency-response skills. She highlighted the relevance of the training in preparing future professionals to handle medical emergencies, particularly during their on-the-job training, where they may encounter situations requiring immediate and appropriate intervention.
Meanwhile, Ms. Veronica Tactay, Administrator of PRC–Ilocos Sur, introduced the Red Cross training team and provided an overview of the activities, procedures, and learning exercises. To support the participants’ understanding and application of the lessons, Red Cross workbooks were distributed, and the participants were organized into five groups for the practical training sessions.
Leading the technical discussions was Ms. Roselyn Sebastian of PRC–Ilocos Sur, who served as the resource speaker and lecturer, with other Red Cross personnel assisting in the demonstrations and facilitating the hands-on exercises. Through guided instruction and practical activities, participants were given opportunities to apply the techniques and procedures necessary to provide immediate assistance during emergencies.
The training strengthened the link between academic learning and real-world application by giving students opportunities to translate their biological knowledge into practical lifesaving competencies. Through the exercises, participants gained valuable experience in recognizing medical emergencies, administering immediate assistance, and applying appropriate response procedures in healthcare environments and community settings.
Scheduled from November 10 to 13, 2026 the four-day initiative forms part of the BS Biology program’s continuing efforts to enrich academic instruction with essential emergency-response and lifesaving skills. It also advances the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through health-focused learning, skills development, and collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross.
