SDG 3: Good Health and Well Being

Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) upholds its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3 - Good Health and Well-Being, aiming to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for individuals of all ages. Through a wide range of health-focused programs, partnerships, and initiatives, BPSU fosters a culture of health and wellness within its campuses and extends this commitment to the broader community. The following sections highlight the university's key initiatives supporting SDG 3, emphasizing its role in health education, mental health support, sexual and reproductive healthcare, community engagement, and wellness programs.

HEALTH EDUCATION AND PROMOTION

CURRICULUM INTEGRATION

BPSU incorporates health education into its academic curriculum, particularly within the College of Allied Health and Sciences (CAHS) and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences (CSBS). This curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking and understanding of psychological principles to address personal and community health issues. By equipping students with comprehensive health knowledge, BPSU empowers them to engage in community health advocacy, promoting a healthier society.

The university actively encourages research focused on public health issues. Faculty members and students undertake studies to address local health concerns, providing real-world implications for improving community health. This research not only enriches the academic experience but also contributes valuable insights to public health initiatives.

RESEARCH INITIATIVES

The university actively engages in research that addresses public health challenges. Faculty members are encouraged to pursue studies that contribute to understanding local health issues, fostering an environment where students can participate in meaningful research with real-world implications for community health.

DISEASES AWARENESS AND PREVENTION CAMPAIGNS

BPSU’s Health Services Unit conducts educational campaigns to raise awareness about prevalent diseases such as dengue and influenza. By creating and sharing informational videos, BPSU provides the community with preventive guidelines and health education, addressing common public health concerns in the region.

The Health Services Unit further extends its reach by creating educational videos on diseases such as acute gastroenteritis and pulmonary tuberculosis. These resources are made available on the university's social media channels, allowing both students and the wider community to access valuable health information at their convenience. This approach aligns with BPSU’s mission to increase health literacy and promote preventive health measures.

Prohibited Drugs, Anti-Smoking, and Alcoholism Awareness Program

On the 24th day of November in the year 2023, the Bataan Peninsula State University –Health Services Unit, Guidance Counseling Unit, and Scholarship and Financial Assistance Unit collaboratively conducted a Prohibited Drugs, Anti-smoking, and Alcoholism Awareness Program for select student scholars. This was in observance of November as “Substance Abuse Awareness Month”. The theme of the aforementioned program was “Let’s eliminate the stigma, show support, and intensify prevention efforts.”

Discussing the main part of the awareness event, the first guest speaker, Mr. Oliver S. Enriquez, shared an insightful presentation. The role of the provincial government of Bataan in the successful implementation of the Tobacco Free Generation Project, especially in the municipality of Balanga City was then highlighted. Moreover, Mr. Enriquez discussed points focusing on the harmful effects of smoking and alcoholism on individuals. Later on, the second guest speaker, Dr. Maila Rostrata, discoursed further insightful knowledge on the importance of adhering to preventive measures against drug abuse.

BPSU-BGHMC Mass Blood Donation Drive

The Bataan Peninsula State University Main Campus and the Bataan General Hospital joined hands recently on the previous Mass Blood Donation Drive that was held last September 25, 2023, at the “Sari Gamit” Covered Court. This narrative will take you on a journey throughout the experiences of the said event.

The Mass Blood Donation Drive was initiated to help maintain a sufficient blood supply at Bataan General Hospital by collecting an additional blood donation from the university’s community.  A letter was sent to the Health and Service Unit requesting assistance on the blood donation event. The Blood Donation Drive was organized in collaboration with the National Service Training Program Office. With the help and support of Professor Melinda Aberin the NSTP Director, NSTP students were encouraged to engage in a noble cause of helping needy patients who need blood transfusion during critical medical situations.

With the help and provision of Professor Noel T. Hipolito, the Physical Plant and Engineering Service Head, chairs, tables, electric lines for the medical equipment, and Industrial fans were installed throughout the venue making sure that the staff of Bataan General Hospital together with the blood donors will be comfortable and relax during the donation drive. Alongside the event was the BPSU Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service Office was assigned to activate the Incident Command Post for any unwanted incidents that may occur during the event. A university memorandum was published to raise awareness within the university community.

The impact of the Bataan Peninsula State University Main Campus – Bataan General Hospital Mass Blood Donation Drive is profound. The blood collected goes on to save lives in Bataan General Hospital, especially for patients facing critical medical conditions. The event also fostered a sense of unity and belonging among the members of the University Community and to reminded them that we have the power to make a difference in the lives of others even in the simplest of ways.

NATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, BPSU supports health-related outreach programs. In September 2023, BPSU’s Main Campus and the Bataan General Hospital organized a Mass Blood Donation Drive at the “Sari Gamit” Covered Court, collecting blood donations to aid local hospitals. This event underscored the university’s commitment to community well-being and solidarity, emphasizing the role of educational institutions in public health advocacy.

Dr. Ruby Santos Matibag, the University President of Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), whose recognition as an Outstanding Government Worker and a 2024 Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee for the Health Behind Bars Program.  The program exemplifies the university’s commitment to impactful education and community service, successfully transforming the health and quality of life for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) over the past decade. The program was expanded from a single jail facility to over 25 jails across Regions 3 and 4A.

The program offers an array of seminars/webinars educating the PDLs on personal health management.  Various seminars on Lung Health, Drug Awareness, an Kidney Health are some of the activities being brought upon by the program.  The Health Beyond Bar program has made substantial strides in improving the health of inmates by providing essential medical services, reducing disease prevalence, and enhancing health literacy. Through its comprehensive approach, BPSU's initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also contributes to the long-term rehabilitation and well-being of incarcerated individuals.

WELLNESS PROGRAMS & SHARING OF SPORTS FACILITIES

BPSU promotes physical fitness and mental well-being through various sports events, fitness classes, and wellness activities. The GILAS PENINSULARES: BPSU Uniwide Games 2023 brought together athletes from all campuses, providing a platform for students to engage in physical activity and showcase their athletic talents. Such programs reinforce the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as part of the university experience.

The university’s sports facilities, including covered courts, volleyball courts, fitness gyms, and track and field facilities, are accessible to students and the local community. These facilities serve as venues for training local athletes, supporting community activities, and promoting physical wellness. For instance, the Orani Campus Sports Complex is utilized for athlete training before regional competitions like the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLARAA) Meet. This open access to facilities strengthens community ties and fosters a culture of fitness and well-being.

ACCESS TO SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Access to sexual and reproductive healthcare is a priority for BPSU, with the university’s Health and Services Unit (HESU) providing essential services for students. During International HIV/AIDS Awareness Month in December 2023, BPSU's Abucay Campus Health Services Unit organized programs to mitigate the spread of HIV/AIDS. The campaign included talks on HIV/AIDS transmission, clinical symptoms, complications, and preventive measures, fostering awareness among the student body about critical sexual health issues.

In compliance with local ordinances and national regulations, BPSU implemented a Smoke-Free University Policy in 2015. This policy is in support of City Ordinance No. 09, Series of 2016 and aims to foster a smoke-free environment within a three-kilometer radius around the campus. Through this policy, BPSU reinforces its dedication to creating a healthy, tobacco-free environment for students, staff, and visitors.

A Legacy of Health and Impactful Advocacy

BPSU’s comprehensive approach to promoting health and well-being is a testament to its unwavering commitment to SDG 3. From integrating health education into its curriculum to providing essential mental health support, sexual and reproductive healthcare, community health partnerships, and wellness programs, BPSU has established itself as a leader in health advocacy within the academic and local community. The university’s initiatives not only enhance the well-being of its students and staff but also contribute significantly to the health of the broader Bataan community, embodying the spirit of sustainable development and community service. Through its continued dedication, BPSU exemplifies how educational institutions can serve as catalysts for positive change in public health.