Team UUSAD is back for their 4th exposure as part of their ongoing community immersion program, continuing their mission to foster meaningful connections, promote grassroots development, and deepen their understanding of local realities. With renewed commitment and enthusiasm, the team looks forward to engaging with the community through collaborative projects, cultural exchanges, and hands-on learning experiences that empower both students and residents alike.
"Taas nga Highblood? Let's Say Zumba-bye!" was a hypertension prevention and management activity conducted by Team UUSAD in July 2025 during their 4th community immersion. The program aimed to promote heart health through fun, engaging Zumba sessions that encouraged physical activity and healthier lifestyles.
Most sessions were held in the morning, with flexible schedules to suit the availability of community members. The highlight was the Grand Zumba on July 13, which gathered participants for a lively, heart-pumping celebration of wellness. The sessions were complemented by short health talks on diet, lifestyle changes, and regular blood pressure monitoring.
The program empowered participants to take charge of their health—proving that staying active can be both effective and enjoyable!
"Ayaw Papaak! Animal Bites Awareness" was an educational activity conducted at USD Elementary School, targeting Grade 5 and 6 students. Led by Team UUSAD, the session aimed to raise awareness on the prevention and proper response to animal bites, especially rabies.
The program featured a pre- and post-test to assess students’ knowledge, followed by interactive discussions on safety tips, first aid, and the importance of vaccination. To reinforce learning in a creative way, a poster-making activity was also held, allowing students to express what they learned through art. The activity successfully combined fun and education, leaving students more informed and empowered to stay safe around animals.
This activity was conducted on July 12, 2025, with the goal of equipping community leaders and health workers with essential skills in blood pressure monitoring. The activity was attended by purok representatives, two from each purok, including several Barangay Health Workers (BHWs).
The program included a pre- and post-test to assess knowledge gained, as well as a return demonstration where participants practiced proper BP-taking techniques. The session was made more impactful with insights and guidance from our guest speaker, Ms. Ruby Jane, a registered nurse from the rural health unit, who shared best practices and real-world applications.
This seminar-workshop served as a vital step in strengthening the community’s role in early detection and management of hypertension.
The team recognized the need for a broader approach to health information dissemination, leading to a radio-based information campaign aimed at educating the wider community on two key health topics: safe water practices and animal bite prevention. Through this initiative, Team UUSAD maximized the reach of local radio to deliver practical tips, safety measures, and awareness messages in an accessible and engaging format.
By utilizing this widely used medium, the program ensured that vital health information reached households beyond the immediate intervention sites—empowering listeners to take proactive steps in disease prevention and in promoting overall community health.
This activity was conducted on July 12, 2025, with the goal of equipping community leaders and health workers with essential skills in blood pressure monitoring. The activity was attended by purok representatives, two from each purok, including several Barangay Health Workers (BHWs).
The program included a pre- and post-test to assess knowledge gained, as well as a return demonstration where participants practiced proper BP-taking techniques. The session was made more impactful with insights and guidance from our guest speaker, Ms. Ruby Jane, a registered nurse from the rural health unit, who shared best practices and real-world applications.
This seminar-workshop served as a vital step in strengthening the community’s role in early detection and management of hypertension.
USD kicks off Nutrition Month 2025 on July 4 with a focus on community health and wellness. The celebration featured a clean-up drive, a search and destroy campaign to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and an energetic Zumba session—all aimed at promoting a healthier environment and active lifestyles. Sanitary Inspector Alvin Vale was also present to deliver an inspiring message about the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy community. During the event, the team took the opportunity to introduce the various activities planned for the month, highlighting the school’s commitment to supporting overall well-being throughout Nutrition Month.
Highlights on the meaningful experiences and positive changes brought about by Team UUSAD’s community partnership activities. Through hands-on projects, personal interactions, and collaborative efforts, the team has built strong connections with the residents of Mahayag, making a lasting difference in health, education, and community development. These stories showcase the dedication, challenges, and successes encountered along the journey of service.
Team UUSAD played as a medical team to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of participants during the boxing tournament held for Araw ng Salug. Equipped with first aid kits and emergency response tools, the medics provided immediate medical assistance, monitored the health of the athletes, and ensured that injuries were promptly addressed. Their presence was essential in maintaining a secure and well-managed sporting event, allowing boxers to compete with confidence while prioritizing their well-being.
On January 20, 2025, Team UUSAD recently presented their proposal for upcoming projects addressing key community health concerns, including water source improvement, hypertension management, and animal bite prevention. Their plan focuses on providing sustainable solutions for clean and safe water access, implementing stronger hypertension awareness and control programs, and enhancing animal bites measures. Through collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders, Team UUSAD aims to create long-term, impactful changes to improve public health and overall community well-being.
The appointment of a Doctor to the Barrios (DTTB), Dr. Arnaldo M. Garcia Jr., at the Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur Rural Health Unit (RHU) marks a significant step in improving healthcare services for the community. As part of the Department of Health's (DOH) initiative, the DTTB will provide essential medical care, strengthen local health programs, and address the needs of underserved populations. Their presence aims to enhance disease prevention, maternal and child health, and primary healthcare access, contributing to a more robust and responsive local health system.
It's been a while since Team UUSAD came back to Mahayag. Along with the other groups, we attended the flag ceremony of the municipal hall and greeted everyone present, including our community receptor, Dr. Gerald Ramos. We also went to greet the Municipal Health Officer, Dr. Wilson Lumapas, at the Rural Health Unit. Then, we also attended the barangay council meeting of the Barangay Upper Salug Daku to greet everyone as courtesy.