On October 8, 2025, the Guimaras State University (GSU) Clinic, in partnership with the Municipal Health Office (MHO), held a health awareness drive titled “Empower, Educate, Eradicate: A Tri-Advocacy Initiative.” The program centered on three pressing issues among today’s youth: mental wellness, teenage pregnancy prevention, and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Dr. Kert D. Pillora, Officer-in-Charge representing University President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño, opened the program with a message reminding students that caring for one’s well-being is a foundation of lifelong growth. He emphasized the need to listen, to reach out, and to make health a personal and collective responsibility.

Following him, Mr. Jose Ramel G. Fernandez, Nurse I, explained that the tri-advocacy campaign was designed not only to inform but also to start difficult conversations—mental health struggles, early pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections. The first lecture was led by Mrs. Carla Joy G. Desbaro, Nurse II and Teenage Pregnancy and Mental Health Program Coordinator, who spoke on the realities of teenage pregnancy and the mental toll of silence, urging students to seek help early.

Adding a reflective tone, Ms. Kleah Marie Bienes offered spiritual guidance, reminding the audience that compassion—for oneself and others—is as vital to healing as medical care. In the afternoon, Mrs. May Pearl M. Amboy, Nurse I and Program Coordinator for TB, STI, HIV, and AIDS, discussed awareness and early prevention, calling for empathy in addressing health issues often hidden under stigma and fear.

The forum was marked by active participation, open dialogue, and shared realizations. More than an awareness campaign, the activity became a space for students to talk, listen, and reflect—a meaningful step toward empowerment and responsibility.

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