by Caleb Tiam-Lee
Ugnayan ng Pahinungod volunteers provided vital healthcare services to underserved communities, including indigenous peoples, impoverished families, and remote rural populations. Supported by the University of the Philippines (UP), the initiative reached over 22,800 individuals, visited 428 schools, conducted 145 capacity-building sessions and seminars, and served 83 communities in 2022, through the dedication of 2,500 volunteers.
“Our work is about delivering specialized health services to the underserved communities of the country,” Dr. Eric Talens, its director, says. “It’s about meeting like-minded volunteers, fostering camaraderie, and experiencing the rich cultures of various communities.”
The Birth of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod
Outreach Program of the Ugnayan ng PahinungodThe journey of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod began with a mission to Jolo, Sulu, in 1987. Dr. Talens recalls, “I joined my first surgical mission as a reward for good performance during my second year of surgical residency. Back then, the entity was known as the UP Oblation Corps, and I was hooked!”
In 1996, Ugnayan ng Pahinungod was officially established. Dr. Talens was invited by Dr. Carmencita Padilla, then director, to coordinate the missions. “I gladly accepted, and since then, I have been deeply involved in this volunteer office,” he shares.
Currently, Ugnayan ng Pahinungod has expanded its reach, now offering 12 programs covering health, education, advocacy, and environmental efforts.
“Our programs range from health training, student tutorials, and teacher development, to advocacy initiatives on HIV, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer,” Dr. Talens explains. The organization has also garnered numerous awards for its impactful work, including the National Outstanding Volunteer Organization Award from the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the UP Gawad Pangulo Awards for Excellence in Public Service.
“Exposure to underserved communities opens new perspectives for health caregivers,” Dr. Talens notes. University support plays a crucial role in sustaining this work. “Support from university leaders is essential, not only in funding but also in providing clear and relevant direction,” he emphasizes.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite its successes, Ugnayan ng Pahinungod has faced significant challenges, particularly in funding. “Securing funds to sustain our activities has been our biggest challenge,” Dr. Talens admits.
While most projects are outsourced, finding resources to run the office and pay staff salaries has been difficult. “Thankfully, we now have stable Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) funds for the office,” he adds.
Sustaining the Mission
Surgical Mission of the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod
The future of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod remains focused on addressing the needs of underserved communities. “Our unit’s direction should always be responsive to the needs of underserved communities and relevant to the country’s current problems,” asserts Dr. Talens.
“Volunteer work among responsible citizens will always respond to the gaps in healthcare inherent in any society. Being university-based allows Ugnayan ng Pahinungod to tap into the expertise of the university and its constituents,” adds Dr. Talens.
Ugnayan ng Pahinungod continues to transform lives through volunteerism, offering vital services to underserved communities. With unwavering support from volunteers and the University of the Philippines, it fosters a culture of compassion and service across the nation.
On a personal note, Dr. Talens shares how his involvement with Ugnayan ng Pahinungod has enriched his life. “It’s difficult to describe and quantify the development,” he says. “But I can confidently say it has made me a better teacher, a more conscientious doctor, and a more compassionate and responsible citizen.”
For those seeking to make a difference, Dr. Talens’ message is clear: “Together, we can bridge the gaps in healthcare and bring hope to those who need it most.”