16/03/2026
Tibok ng Kaalaman, Sigla ng Kalusugan: A Heart Month Collaborative Activity by BDH, PNAโL.U, and the Schools of Nursing in La Union
In celebration of Heart Month, โTibok ng Kaalaman, Sigla ng Kalusuganโ was launched as a collaborative initiative of Bacnotan District Hospital (BDH), the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) โ La Union Chapter, and the three Colleges of Nursing in the province: Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) โ College of Community Health and Allied Medical Sciences, Union Christian College (UCC) โ School of Health Sciences, and Lorma Colleges โ College of Nursing. The activity underscored the importance of strong partnerships among healthcare institutions, professional organizations, and academic communities in advancing public health education and disease prevention, reflecting the Agkaysa vision of unity and collective action championed by Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega.
Dr. Jeffrey B. Julian, PNA Board of Director and Chief Nursing Officer of Bacnotan District Hospital, spearheaded the initiative in collaboration with PNA member Nurse Arnel R. Fontanilla and Nurse Yechan Shin, a KOICA Korean Volunteer. Designed to strengthen awareness of noncommunicable diseasesโparticularly hypertension, stroke, and diabetesโthe program delivered structured lectures and health education sessions to admitted patients and their watchers, outpatient department (OPD) clients, hospital personnel, and members of the broader BDH community.
Educational strategies were thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of each group. Admitted patients received individualized, one-on-one discussions focused on their specific conditions, while OPD clients and hospital employees participated in organized group learning sessions. Nursing students assigned to BDH actively facilitated the activities, delivered presentations, and distributed educational materials, effectively bridging academic preparation with real-world patient engagement and community service.
Creativity enhanced the learning experience, as participating nursing schools incorporated interactive methods such as jingles and simple songs to reinforce essential health messages. These approaches not only improved retention but also demonstrated that health education can be both informative and engaging. Clinical instructors commended the students for their professionalism, confidence, and compassionโqualities that reflect both strong academic grounding and a commitment to patient-centered care.
The initiative received strong support from Dr. Zenserly D. Pagaduan, Chief of Hospital of Bacnotan District Hospital, and Ms. Kristel Gizelle A. Beรฑas, President of the PNA โ La Union Chapter, who emphasized that patient education remains a cornerstone of holistic healthcare. More than a Heart Month celebration, โTibok ng Kaalaman, Sigla ng Kalusuganโ stands as a testament to the impact of collaboration and shared advocacy. Anchored in the Agkaysa principle of working together as one, the program reaffirmed the vital role of nurses and future nurses as educators, advocates, and leaders in promoting healthier communities.
PNA X BDH X DMMMSU X UCC X LORMA
Driven by the advocacy to integrate solidarity into high-quality medical services, the district hospitals showcased the spirit of โAgkaysaโ through
