A community outreach together with a health and nutrition seminar were held on December 23, 2022, with the assistance of the Tarlac Local Government Units, the Department of Science and Technology, and Tarlac State University - College of Science. By distributing hygiene kits and offering lectures on proper hygiene to all indigenous people in Barangay Labney, Mayantoc, Tarlac, this outreach initiative seeks to strengthen the community of the Abeiling tribe and Aeta Mag-anchi with the help of the Tarlac State University - Extension Service Providers.
The initiative on Community Empowerment Through Science and Technology is one of the DOST's key programs (CEST). It was introduced in response to the government's National Program on Poverty Alleviation. CEST's mission is to create innovative, capable, and resilient rural communities.
Mr. Jomer V. Manalang, an expert in the College of Science and the extension program head, capably led the conversation and sang to the beneficiaries the "Happy Birthday Song" while showing safe handwashing practices. He also discussed the advantages and significance of taking healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables. He emphasized that using good handwashing techniques and consuming nutritious foods may assist to reduce the spread of viruses and other diseases, as well as help students perform better in school and maintain or improve their health.
The distribution of hygiene kits, which include facemasks, toothbrushes, and toothpaste as well as alcohol, soap, and a pair of slippers, was also directed by Mr. Danilo Alcantara, a representative from DOST, Prof. Adora Obregon, a faculty member from the College of Science, and Prof. Mary Jane Rigor, the Dean of the College of Science as well as a faculty member of the same college. They were also interviewed by house parents to ascertain the primary healthcare needs of the neighborhood. The majority of them request that several lectures be given on raising community knowledge of health issues and improving their standard of living.
The knowledge transfer and outreach work that COS completed were in line with and benefited from the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Agenda's goals 1 (No Poverty), goals (Good Health and Well-Being), and goals 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The outreach program highlighted the distribution of hygiene kits, snacks and meals provided by DOST and LGU, and imparting lessons with regards to spreading health awareness. In light of this, this led to the identification of community needs and challenges. Additionally, fostering, developing, and supporting such a community does indeed help to lessen inequality among other groups.
