Isabela State University and Local Health Partners Launch Community Health Initiative
In a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing community health and education, the Isabela State University (ISU) City of Ilagan campus, College of Nursing joined forces with Governor Faustino N. Dy Sr. Memorial Hospital (GFNDSMH), the Integrated Provincial Health Office of Isabela (IPHO), and the City Health Office – I (CHO-I) of Ilagan to conduct a historic contract signing and health education seminar on October 21, 2024. This event marked the launch of a groundbreaking six-month community extension program designed to promote health, prevent disease, and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”
The day commenced with an invocation and the National Anthem, creating a solemn atmosphere. Daryl Esperanza served as the Master of Ceremony, welcoming a diverse audience that included healthcare professionals, local officials, and community advocates. Dr. Arlene M. Lazaro, MD, MSPH, FPAMS, Chief of GFNDSMH, delivered the opening remarks, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to community health and wellness. Following these introductions, Sir Ryan M. Amigo, RN, RM, CHA, FRIN, FPCHA, the Project Leader from ISU, presented an overview of the project’s objectives and its dedication to bolstering local health initiatives. A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place between ISU-City of Ilagan, GFNDSMH, IPHO, and CHO-I. Key representatives—including Dr. Lazaro, Dr. Paguirigan, Dr. Red G. Cachapero (City Health Officer of CHO-I), and Engr. Alfonso R. Simon (Executive Officer of ISU-City of Ilagan)—signed the MOA to formalize their commitment to enhancing health education and prevention services within the community. This partnership exemplifies SDG 17 by fostering collaborative efforts among institutions to promote resilience and sustainable development.
The seminar featured cultural performances by the Abbayao Pangkat Mananayaw, enriching the event with local traditions. Inspirational messages from Dr. Cachapero and Engr. Simon highlighted the societal benefits of robust health education programs. Attendees participated in a Pledge of Commitment to reinforce their dedication to improving community health. The first part of the event concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Elinor D. Caro, Chief Nurse of GFNDSMH, who commended the collaborative efforts of all partners involved.
The second half of the program transitioned to the hospital grounds for an energizing Zumba session led by student nurses and nursing faculty. Following this activity, Ms. Rhoda B. Yap, Nursing Service Administrator, welcomed participants for the afternoon’s educational lectures. Ms. Eleanor R. Atienza, RN, MAN, delivered a lecture on hypertension prevention and management techniques for this common condition. The second lecture was presented by licensed psychologist Dominic B. Agoot, focusing on mental health awareness and emphasizing the importance of addressing mental well-being alongside physical health. Throughout the day, nursing students provided free vital sign checks to community members, applying their training to ensure personalized health monitoring.
The program will continue weekly on Mondays until April 2025, aiming to maximize outreach and effectiveness in various health promotion and disease prevention efforts already active in the community. This initiative seeks to complement existing government and non-government health programs by incorporating unique community-driven strategies. The College of Nursing’s collaborative program represents a vital step forward in achieving long-term health benefits for the community. Through consistent engagement and unwavering commitment from all participating organizations, this initiative promises to foster healthier lifestyles, enhance disease prevention efforts, and cultivate a more informed community over the next six months. In conclusion, this partnership not only addresses immediate health concerns but also sets a foundation for sustainable health practices that can significantly impact public well-being in the City of Ilagan and beyond.
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