University News

OSS and MSD unite for Inaugural Health and Wellness Collaboration

Brent Soriano, Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) launched its first-ever joint Health and Wellness Program on April 22 and May 30, 2025, uniting the efforts of the Office of Student Services (OSS) and the Medical Services Department (MSD).

Held under the theme “Building a Healthier Tomorrow: Empowering Wellness for a Stronger Community,” the two-day initiative was designed to benefit the entire PUP community. The program featured a series of health-focused activities and information sessions aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellness across the university. This is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

The Kickoff Event
The event began with a Health Awareness Symposium held at the NARLLC Bulwagang Balagtas, featuring six distinguished speakers who addressed critical health topics—from cancer prevention to mental wellness in the workplace.

Dr. Beatrice J. Tiangco, President and CEO of CARE Philippines, opened the symposium with a compelling talk titled “Empowering Communities through Cancer Awareness,” encouraging participants to advocate for early detection and take proactive steps toward health education and care. She was followed by Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga, Director of the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS), who discussed the importance of fostering a healthy work environment.

The session continued with surgical oncologist Dr. Ida Marie Lim of the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, who shared insights on “Thyroid and Head & Neck Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection,” providing participants with practical screening guidelines. Cardiologist Dr. Francis Charles L. Fernandez from UERM Medical Center emphasized how nutrition and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Dondon Davidge F. Canoza of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute presented the latest strategies in lung cancer prevention.

Concluding the symposium, Ms. Carmen Auste, CEO of the Cancer Warriors Foundation Philippines, addressed systemic barriers to cancer care access in the country.

“Access to timely treatment remains our greatest challenge,” she said, calling for greater collaboration between institutions and local communities.

The symposium marked a strong start to the university’s expanding initiatives to empower the PUP community through accessible health education and proactive wellness strategies.

Hands-On Workshops and Activities
The second day continued with a series of interactive workshops and free medical services held at the 2nd Floor, South Wing of the university’s Main Building. Participants received complimentary consultations and diagnostic screenings through partnerships with top medical providers, including Shinagawa Diagnostic and Preventive Care, Prime Diagnostic Medical Inc., and UERM Medical Center. Services covered a wide range of health concerns, such as eye and bone health, as well as screenings for breast, cervical, and thyroid cancer. The LoveYourself Caravan also provided on-site HIV and syphilis testing.

Mental health in sports took the spotlight in the workshop “Ready, Set, Go! Athletes, Mental Health, and the Road to Resilience,” led by Dr. Elham Bocalbos, Head of the Psychiatry Department at UERM Medical Center. Dr. Bocalbos emphasized the unique mental health challenges faced by student-athletes and strategies to build resilience.

The afternoon sessions featured filmmaker and disability rights advocate Gabriel Barba, who shared powerful insights into the experiences of persons with disabilities. Mx. Pete Tan of LoveYourself PH followed with a talk on safe sexual health practices, encouraging open dialogue and education among students.

Concluding the day was Dr. Edgar Michael T. Eufemio, Medical Director of Peak Form Sports Recovery Center, who led a practical discussion on sports injuries. He addressed frequently asked questions and provided guidance on prevention and recovery, empowering student-athletes to take charge of their physical well-being.

The program was spearheaded by student leaders Mr. Klarence Jerico T. Capunihan and Mr. Vince R. Bingayan, in collaboration with faculty co-leads Prof. Jimmy M. Fernando and Dr. Liza Yanes of the Medical Services Department.

Their joint leadership ensured smooth coordination among key partner organizations, including the PUP Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral, Mapúa University Red Cross Youth, the Philippine Society of Medical Technology Students (National University Manila Chapter), the PUP College of Political Science and Public Administration Council, and the PUP Future Business Teachers’ Organization.

Impact and Future Directions
By offering free consultations, health screenings, and expert-led discussions, PUP’s first collaborative Health and Wellness Program significantly strengthened the university’s culture of health awareness and preventive care. More than 800 participants—including students, faculty, and staff—benefited from personalized medical guidance and community-focused activities.

Organizers have already begun preparations for next year’s program, with plans to broaden its scope and deepen institutional partnerships.

“Our goal is to make wellness an integral part of campus life—today’s initiative is just the beginning,” said Capunihan.

With its strong lineup of expert speakers, hands-on health services, and committed leadership, PUP’s inaugural Health and Wellness Program sets a new standard for university-driven public health initiatives—truly paving the way for a healthier tomorrow.