By: Fawn San Jose Maday-a
On May 29, 2025, the University of Baguio’s School of Nursing, led by its devoted Clinical Instructors and accomplished Alumni, answered the call for community service by joining Operation Tuli at Barangay Pinsao Proper. In direct response to the barangay’s request for medical assistance, this surgical mission stood as a testament to the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals in fostering wellness and tradition. Joining this meaningful initiative are the Saint Louis University School of Medicine and the Barangay Rural Health Unit of Pinsao, further strengthening the mission’s impact through their expertise and dedication to community health.
After a short orientation and a prayer, the dedicated doctors and nurses started the circumcision, ensuring that all patients received a proper care and treatment. The success of the surgical mission was a testament to the commitment and expertise of the healthcare professionals involved. Every patient was given thorough attention, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the process. While 50 individuals were successfully accommodated, the medical team upheld strict evaluation standards to determine eligibility, prioritizing patient health above all. Those who were advised against undergoing the procedure were carefully assessed, with considerations given to factors such as penile development, foreskin coverage, and other medical conditions that could affect surgical precision. This cautious approach underscores the mission’s dedication not only to service but to ensuring safe and appropriate medical interventions for the community.
At the conclusion of the surgical mission, Aric Luy-od, an alumna, reflected on the experience, saying, “The most unforgettable moment was witnessing young boys, their eyes filled with fear, emerge from the procedure with proud smiles, choosing courage over tears.” When asked how this experience reshaped his view on healthcare, he shared, “This is more than just a noble profession; it is a calling. True fulfillment does not stem from recognition or awards but from dedicating oneself to service especially for those who have little to offer in return yet stand to gain so much.”
This initiative is aligned to the SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Ensuring access to safe and hygienic circumcision promotes health, prevents infections, and supports overall well-being; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Providing free medical services helps bridge healthcare gaps, ensuring that underserved communities receive essential surgical care; SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborations between medical institutions, local government units, and community organizations strengthen healthcare initiatives and improve outreach efforts; SDG 1: No Poverty – By providing free medical services, the mission helps reduce financial burdens on families who may not afford healthcare; SDG 5: Gender Equality – While circumcision is male-focused, ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all genders strengthens overall community health initiatives.
