On July 18, 2025, the Barangay Hall of Janipa-an Oeste, New Lucena wasn’t just filled with 27 participants—it was filled with hope, laughter, and curiosity. What was planned for 20 turned into a full house, because when the topic is health, people show up. After all, who doesn’t want to live a little longer, and live a lot better?

The Community Health Education Seminar, led by Miss Berna with the support of LifeBank Foundation and the IPAT-SIAD Program, wasn’t just another “listen-and-forget” session. It was a gentle but firm nudge to all of us: health is not only personal—it’s also communal.

Why It Matters

We often say “health is wealth.” But the hard truth is—poor health is poverty. As Miss Berna explained, when one breadwinner gets sick, expenses rise and income falls. Suddenly, the illness of one becomes the struggle of many.

And with communicable diseases? One uncovered cough or careless sneeze can ripple through an entire barangay. Protecting yourself means protecting everyone around you.

Small Habits, Big Change

No fancy gyms. No expensive supplements. Just everyday choices:
✔️ Eat living food—fresh, local, organic if possible.
✔️ Sleep well, move often, and rest your mind.
✔️ Cut back on vices—your lungs and liver will thank you.
✔️ Wash hands, clean surroundings, and practice safe habits.

What stood out was Miss Berna’s approach. She didn’t force anyone to quit their habits. Instead, she said: “Namit na, nami pa sa lawas mo.” (If it tastes good, it should also be good for your body.) Simple, practical, and relatable.

Real Questions, Real Concerns

The Q&A showed how much people care. From cup noodles with wax, formalin in vegetables, HIV prevention, and even the safety of imported apples—participants asked what mattered most to their families. The answers reminded us of one thing: health is best when it’s local, natural, and informed.

Takeaway

Barangay Captain Alexander said it best: “It’s good that we are informed while we are still healthy.” And he’s right. Awareness today is protection tomorrow.

In a world where junk food is cheap, vices are tempting, and fake news spreads faster than viruses, seminars like this aren’t just “activities”—they are lifelines.

If Janipa-an Oeste chooses health today, New Lucena will be stronger tomorrow.

Because when families stay healthy, communities don’t just live longer—they live better.