A united call for a healthier lifestyle and cleaner environment echoed across Barangay Balongay as Graduate students from Ateneo de Naga University launched Project H.E.A.R.T.S. (Health Education and Awareness and Responsible Trash System for Community Resilience). With the theme, “Building a Healthy Heart and a Clean Community for a Safer, Stronger Barangay,” the initiative brought together Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Kagawad, Tanod, and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan for a half-day program focused on strengthening community well-being.
Held at the Barangay Hall from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, the activity addressed two pressing local issues: the rising cases of hypertension and the persistent challenge of improper waste disposal. The project underscored the growing concern over lifestyle-related hypertension, emphasizing how unhealthy habits and lack of awareness contribute to the condition’s prevalence in communities.
During the program, participants received health education on the risk factors of hypertension, practical lifestyle changes, and preventive measures that residents can apply in their daily routines. Katrina Y. Verzosa, RN highlighted the importance of monitoring blood pressure, adopting balanced diets, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking and excessive salt intake.
Alongside health promotion, the initiative tackled environmental problems linked to poor waste management and open drainage systems. Improper disposal of garbage has long exposed residents to sanitation issues, foul odor, mosquito breeding sites, and potential flooding. Ms. Amy A. Prieto, RN stressed that community resilience relies not only on personal health but also on the cleanliness and safety of the environment.
Participants were briefed by Merle F. Palcon, RN on proper waste segregation, adherence to barangay waste policies, and simple household practices that can reduce pollution. The discussion also covered safe drainage maintenance and the collective responsibility of keeping pathways free of debris to prevent hazards,
Project H.E.A.R.T.S. aims to instill a shared commitment to healthier living and environmental care. By merging health advocacy with ecological action, the program hopes to empower Barangay Balongay to build a community that is more informed, responsible, and prepared to prevent disease.
The Ateneo de Naga University Graduate School, through its NSG 702 students, affirms its dedication to supporting local communities in fostering sustainable, long-term wellness.
With strengthened awareness and unified action, Barangay Balongay takes a firm step toward becoming a safer and more resilient community—proof that a healthy heart begins with a healthy environment.
by Azinneth N. Lobrigo, RN /Amy A. Prieto, RN
Class of NSG 702, MN | MAN
