MMSU Pharmacy Department launches Project B.O.T.I.K.A. in Currimao
By Joycel Lagrio, STRATCOM Correspondent
Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) College of Health Sciences, through the Department of Pharmacy, launched Project B.O.T.I.K.A.: Rangtay ti Salun-at ken Siglat (Boosting Occupational and Therapeutic Innovation for Knowledge Application), a holistic health program that aims to enhance the well-being of residents, on September 16 at Barangay Pangil, Currimao, Ilocos Norte.
Led by Prof. Janette G. Ragus, the project targets pediatric and geriatric populations, barangay officials, health workers, and youth leaders, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals on health, reduced inequality, peace, justice, and partnerships.
Project BOTIKA, which was welcomed by officials and residents of Pangil headed by Barangay Captain Lilia Tabucao, features six subprograms: BILEG, OLOCAN, TIMPUYOG, ILOT, KIRED, and AKEM, aimed to foster physical, emotional, cultural, and social well-being among community members while promoting responsible healthcare practices.
It is backed by strong collaborations with the Drugstores Association of the Philippines–Ilocos Norte Chapter, Federation of Junior Philippine Pharmacists Association–Psi Chapter, Ilocos Norte Pharmacists Association, Pharmacy Alumni, Philippine Red Cross–Ilocos Norte Chapter, and Speak Up, I’m Here program of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte.
Prof. Angelica May Mendoza, a faculty member of the Department of Pharmacy, emphasized the project's goal of promoting responsible healthcare practices to community residents. “What we bring is not just a service but also a reminder that we all aspire to improve ourselves and to continually nurture our health," she said.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for Project B.O.T.I.K.A. was signed on August 22, at Barangay Pangil, Currimao. Through empowerment, community participation, and sustainable health practices, MMSU and its partners envision a healthier, more resilient, and culturally grounded Currimao community, setting a strong model for inclusive healthcare in Ilocos Norte.
📸 MMSU Extension Directorate
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STRATCOM
