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(D9) THE END AND THE BEGINNING: OF DUTIES, NEWFOUND STRENGTHS, AND CLASS SUSPENSIONS

The supposedly two-week summer immersion program has finally ended. I am still uncertain whether our field deployment will be extended into the following week. However, the three and a half days I spent immersed in the municipality of Alfonso—joining barangay health workers and meeting the Mayor—have helped me realize how every detail in public health truly matters.

I used to observe the efforts of the Alfonso RHU from a distance, mainly through their consistent updates on social media. But being on the ground gave me a clearer picture of how dedicated they are to community service.

It is clear that they regularly visit households to check on each resident’s well-being, including monitoring vital signs such as blood sugar levels. There is visible cooperation between barangay officials and municipal health workers. They work together closely, checking on the health of Alfonso’s residents with commitment and compassion. From my field experiences and by closely following the Alfonso Municipal Health Office's Facebook page, I have reflected on three important lessons:

  1. Being a public health worker means going beyond your job description. Even during calamities, we must reach out to those in need. Our service should continue beyond the typical 8-to-5 schedule, because our work is not driven solely by salary but by a genuine desire to help others. Our goal is to reduce suffering and do no harm.

  2. We draw strength from the people around us. Our colleagues and the barangay residents serve as our partners in service. They act as our eyes and ears on the ground, especially when we cannot personally visit every area. Building camaraderie and maintaining strong relationships with the people we work with is essential.

  3. I must look beyond class suspensions. My future role involves caring for lives, which is a noble calling. This vocation demands sacrifice and extra effort. I need to develop a mindset that is prepared for situations beyond normal schedules, because health needs and emergencies do not follow a fixed timetable. They can happen at any moment,

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