15/08/2026
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Second-year Master of Management in Public Management (MMPM) students of the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) conducted βCommunity Health Empowerment: Advancing HIV Awareness, Prevention, and Community Actionβ at the Barangay Poblacion South Gymnasium on August 1, 2026, reaching 131 local residents.
Organized for their MGT 243 (Project Development and Management) course under Faculty-in-Charge Asst. Prof. Ma. Rhona P. Beriales and MMPM-2 Program Manager Dr. Serren Lor V. Gallinero, the initiative combined health education with free on-site medical services.
In partnership with the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), Santhy Laurence Sapio delivered an HIV 101 lecture on transmission, prevention, and treatment, while Cirilo Rodolfo Lapascua IV facilitated an introduction to the transgender community focused on inclusion and healthcare access. Additionally, volunteers from West Visayas State University (WVSU) Green Legacy provided free, confidential HIV screening and counseling.
The activity was supported by municipal and barangay officials, led by Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Josephus Ambrosius Renatus T. Escanlar (representing Municipal Mayor Hon. Sofronio L. Fusin Jr.) and Punong Barangay Hon. Raffy R. Dela Cruz. Dela Cruz highlighted the critical need for the initiative, noting that Poblacion South has the highest number of recorded HIV cases in Oton.
Dr. Gallinero expressed hope that participants would return home as empowered advocates for health awareness, prevention, and compassion. The event concluded with a ceremonial Pledge of Commitment signing to sustain local health action.