Written by: Immanuel Jesus Fernandez
BAGUIO CITY, October 17, 2026 — In recognition of its continuing commitment to institutional collaboration, community service, and health-related initiatives, the University of Baguio (UB) was among the recipients of the prestigious Kabaddang Award during the Gabi ng Parangal at Pagpupugay organized by the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, Inc. – Baguio-Benguet-Mt. Province Chapter (PAMET BBMP). The recognition ceremony was held at the Newtown Plaza Hotel Ballroom, CM Recto, Baguio City, as part of the chapter’s 56th Founding Anniversary and 20th Chapter Conference.
The Kabaddang Award recognizes partners and sponsors whose generosity, institutional support, and professional or technical assistance have contributed significantly to the programs and initiatives of PAMET BBMP. The University received the distinction in recognition of its contributions to two chapter activities: the participation of the UB Color Guards in the organization’s Oath-Taking Ceremonies and the University’s support for the Mobile Blood Donation initiative conducted in June 2026.
During the Oath-Taking Ceremonies, the UB Color Guards led the formal presentation of colors, demonstrating discipline, precision, and professionalism as newly licensed medical technologists marked an important milestone in their professional journey. Their participation contributed to the solemnity of the occasion while providing student members with opportunities to strengthen their leadership, teamwork, and sense of responsibility in a professional setting.
Complementing this ceremonial engagement was the University’s support for PAMET BBMP’s Mobile Blood Donation initiative through the UB Medical Technology Department. The activity contributed to efforts to promote voluntary blood donation and support the availability of safe blood for patients requiring transfusion. This initiative highlighted the University’s commitment to community health and demonstrated the importance of cooperation between academic institutions and healthcare professionals in addressing community needs.
Together, these contributions reflect the University’s multidisciplinary approach to community engagement, bringing together student organizations and academic departments in support of initiatives that promote professional development, public health, and community service.
The recognition also reflected the leadership and support of Dr. Charesma Grace Killip Lud-ayen, Dean of the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety, whose continued encouragement of the UB Color Guards has helped expand the organization’s participation in activities beyond the University.
Receiving the award on behalf of the University was Mr. Immanuel Jesus A. Fernandez, faculty member and adviser of the UB Color Guards, together with members of the organization. The plaque was presented by PAMET BBMP officers during the recognition ceremony, acknowledging the University’s contributions to the chapter’s programs and activities.
Under the leadership of Chapter President Maria Vida C. Ragma, RMT, MSPM, PAMET BBMP expressed its appreciation to its institutional partners and supporters, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between professional organizations and educational institutions in strengthening health-related programs and community engagement throughout the region.
Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: The Kabaddang Award recognized the University of Baguio’s collaboration with PAMET BBMP in supporting professional and community-oriented initiatives. Through its participation in ceremonial activities and support for the Mobile Blood Donation program, the University demonstrated the value of institutional partnerships in mobilizing resources, expertise, and collective efforts toward shared community development objectives.
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: The University’s support for the Mobile Blood Donation initiative contributed to community health efforts by promoting voluntary blood donation and supporting programs intended to improve the availability of safe blood for patients in need. The collaboration reflected the importance of collective participation in health-related initiatives and the University’s commitment to supporting the well-being of communities in Baguio City and neighboring areas.
SDG 4 – Quality Education: The involvement of the UB Color Guards provided experiential learning opportunities that strengthened students’ leadership, discipline, teamwork, and professional conduct. Their participation in activities organized by a professional health organization demonstrated how learning beyond the classroom can foster personal development, civic responsibility, and a commitment to community service.
The Kabaddang Award serves as a meaningful recognition of the University of Baguio’s continuing efforts to translate institutional values into community-oriented action. Through the combined contributions of the UB Color Guards and the Medical Technology Department, the University demonstrated how education, collaboration, and service can complement one another in supporting professional organizations and addressing community needs.
More than an institutional distinction, the recognition reinforces the University’s commitment to excellence, discipline, leadership, and meaningful service—values that continue to guide its engagement with professional partners and the wider community.