The School of Health and Natural Sciences (SHANS) of Saint Mary’s University, through the Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center (CEIPSC), successfully conducted the Community Health Checkup Program on October 22, 2025, at Sitio Gonggongob, Cabuluan, Villaverde. The activity was organized as part of the celebration of Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Museum Month, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd). The medical mission aimed to promote community wellness and improve healthcare access in remote areas. It offered medical and dental consultations, along with free medicines and snacks for attendees. Services included medical checkups for parents and students, dental examinations for elementary pupils, and proper medication counseling to ensure safe and effective treatment use.

The initiative was made possible through the active involvement of SHANS faculty and students, particularly from the Nursing Department, Pharmacy Department and the Center for Natural Sciences. Professional healthcare support was provided by Dr. Aaron Paul D. Bernas, DMD, FICCDE, and Dr. Ryan Christopher A. Buccat, MD, who ensured that community members received appropriate medical assessment, treatment, and health education throughout the program.

Through this initiative, SHANS reaffirmed its commitment to community service and public health promotion, aligning its efforts with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering accessible healthcare and strengthening collaboration for sustainable community development.