August 26, 2025โIn an effort to foster a healthier and more inclusive academic environment, a new initiative titled โHEAL: Health, Empowerment, Awareness, and Lifeโ started yesterday at Coffee and Lemon Cafe, JBQ Bldg., Samoki, Bontoc, to address mental health, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and HIV among students and university personnel.
The HEAL seminar is designed to promote holistic wellness, raise awareness, and empower individuals to confront barriers caused by silence, misinformation, and social stigma surrounding these issues.
The initiative aims to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and support, particularly for diverse groups such as women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and gender-diverse communities.
“Thatโs why HEAL is not just a project; it’s an invitation. An invitation to stop, reflect, and begin healing. To prioritize our health not just when weโre sick, but even more so when we feel tired, anxious, unheard, or unseen,” University President Dr. Edgar G. Cue stated in his message during the opening of the activity.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Penelope A. Damogo, the resource speaker for the activity shared her expertise on important topics on “Strong Mind, Strong Body: The Power of What You Eat” and “Caring for Our Bodies, Caring for Our Future: A Reproductive Health Conversation for the Youth”.
This four-day seminar, which will run until August 29, 2025, is a collaboration between the universityโs Gender and Development Unit, Happiness Center, and Health Services Unit and will serve as a platform for education, awareness, and empowerment.
Through the HEAL initiative, the university expects to increase understanding of mental health, STDs, and HIV; reduce stigma; and provide individuals with the necessary tools to promote healthy behaviors. The program underscores the institutionโs commitment to creating a mentally healthy and HIV-responsive academic community.
