Strengthening academic–community collaboration for equitable and sustainable healthcare in Benguet.
Kibungan, Benguet — October 7, 2025.
The University of the Cordilleras (UC), through its College of Nursing (UC-CON), has formally entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kibungan, Benguet, marking a significant milestone in UC-CON’s continuing efforts to strengthen community-based nursing education and public health initiatives across the Cordillera region.
Representing UC-CON were Dr. Sheila Maria G. Batoon, Level III Community and Hospital Coordinator, and Ms. Lily Christy Baludda, Faculty Member. The MOA was signed alongside Hon. Agustin J. Tello, Municipal Mayor of Kibungan, and Dr. Hydre Nga-ew, Municipal Health Officer (MHO)—affirming both institutions’ shared commitment to promoting accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare for the people of Kibungan.
Strengthening Learning Through Service
Under this partnership, UC nursing students will be deployed to LGU-managed health facilities, including the Rural Health Unit (RHU), Barangay Health Stations (BHS), and other community health centers.
They will actively assist in:
- Immunization drives and maternal–child health programs
- Health education and promotion campaigns
- Disease prevention and surveillance initiatives
- Community development projects under the Community Organizing Participatory Action Research (COPAR)framework
Through this collaboration, student nurses will gain authentic community exposure, bridging classroom learning with real-world service while developing leadership, cultural competence, and social accountability—core values of the UC nurse.
A Shared Vision for Universal Health Care
The UC-CON–LGU Kibungan partnership supports the national vision of Universal Health Care (UHC) by fostering stronger academic–community linkages that enhance the delivery of essential health services in rural and economically vulnerable communities.
By aligning nursing education with local health priorities, UC-CON continues to prepare competent, compassionate, and community-centered nurses dedicated to advancing health equity, social protection, and sustainability.
UC-CON’s Commitment to Partnership and Service
UC-CON extends its gratitude to Mayor Agustin J. Tello, Dr. Hydre Nga-ew, and the entire LGU Kibungan for embracing this collaboration.
Through strategic partnerships with local government units, UC-CON remains steadfast in promoting community engagement, primary health care, and nursing excellence—actively contributing to the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment
SDG 1 – No Poverty
Target 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, achieving substantial coverage of the poor and vulnerable.
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential healthcare services and medicines for all.
SDG 4 – Quality Education
Target 4.7: Ensure that learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development and community well-being.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public–private, and civil-society partnerships.
