Trees are not just what they’re usually known for—mere living organisms. Appreciated in a deeper sense, they carry a history of growth and development passed down from generation to generation. To grow a sturdy and healthy tree, one must be more involved in caring not only for its leaves and flowers but also for its trunk and roots.
The Rotaract Club of Saint Louis University – School of Medicine shares this same notion: that in providing proper service, one must delve into the roots of healthcare and social problems. Thus, a medical mission aimed at uprooting problems and reanchoring roots was organized, focusing on families—the root of all people. This effort was called “Bayanihan sa Irisan.”
Bayanihan sa Irisan covered a wide range of programs that addressed multiple aspects of health and well-being: medical screening, prenatal screening, a family planning seminar, a blood donation drive, and a feeding program. This multi-approach mission, powered by “one bayanihan effort,” was designed to create a more meaningful and lasting impact on families and their community.
PLOWING THE LAND
As with planting, one must first find the perfect soil that will serve as the home of a tree. For this mission, Barangay Irisan in Baguio City became the club’s apple of the eye. Its geography and demographics reflect richness in both land area and population—an ideal setting to plant a seed of compassion.
However, with its diversity also come pressing health and social concerns that require collaborative interventions. Though challenging, this diversity created the opportunity to reach a wide range of residents and maximize the impact of the service initiatives.
WATERING THE SPROUT
In keeping with Rotary’s legacy, outreach activities and collaborations have always been staples of the club—like a sprout that has emerged but still needs nurturing to grow. Unlike past outreach activities, however, Bayanihan sa Irisan aimed to elevate the club’s strategy in serving the community.
The mission stood out by integrating multiple areas of focus into one event. As current President Andrea Mae Manongdo of the Rotaract Club – SLU School of Medicine shared:
“This time, we brought together multiple initiatives under one roof—reflecting Rotary’s seven areas of focus and showcasing the power of collaboration. It sets a stronger foundation for future projects that are more comprehensive and community-centered.”
NURTURING THE SAPLING
With the land plowed and the sprout watered, nurturing the sapling becomes the most crucial step. Sadly, in many initiatives, sustaining what has already been started is often neglected. That is why the club also hopes to conduct more programs like this, integrating services that provide long-term relief and support to the community.
Dr. Jose Lava Ursua, Adviser of the Rotaract Club of SLU School of Medicine, expressed:
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our RCB doctors and members who generously shared their time, expertise, and service in making this endeavor possible. We look forward to further collaborations with our Rotaractors and eagerly anticipate our next medical mission at Abanao Square Mall on October 5, 2025.”
The act of uprooting diverse health concerns in one of Baguio’s largest communities has been effectively accomplished. The effort to reanchor families—the roots—into better health and knowledge from infancy to elderly has become a reality. May this story of planting trees of hope through inclusive and radical approaches to healthcare inspire more seeds of shared principles and ideals to be planted across the nation.
