The Southern Luzon State University - Office of Extension Services (OES), together with the College of Allied Medicine (CAM), conducted a health education and outreach activity for the Agta community in Sitio Maksa, Barangay Magsikap, General Nakar, Quezon, on October 9.
The chieftain of the Agta community, Mr. Marlon Astoveza, welcomed the team. Mr. Astoveza, along with the other community members, expressed their gratitude to SLSU for choosing their community for this initiative. He also voiced hopes for future extension activities that would further benefit the Agta people.
During the activity, faculty members from CAM delivered health education talks to the children and the parents of the Agta community. Prof. Melvin D. Cadao introduced the concepts of nutrition, different kinds of vegetable and fruits, as well as how to cook nutritious meals. Meanwhile, Prof. Charito Lilibeth A. Dator provided an in-depth discussion on proper hygiene practices particularly encouraging the children on the proper ways of washing their bodies and hands.
Adding a cultural touch to the event, the children of the community showcased native songs and dances, reflecting their daily lives and customs through their performances.
The event concluded with a donation drive organized by CAM faculty, CAM CERT, and their partner institution, Kiwanis International. They distributed hygiene kits, clothing, toys, and learning materials to the Agta tribe members.
SLSU is dedicated to support the communities of Indigenous Peoples (IPs); it is reflected not only in its efforts to facilitate their admission to the university but also in its community extension programs aimed at improving their quality of life.
By: Jaquelyn D. Merjudio