Aiming to promote the health and well-being of its male faculty and staff, Mindoro State University (MinSU), through its Women, Gender, and Development (WGAD) Office, launched its Men’s Health Month celebration across campuses with a two-day event titled “Men’s Health 101: Get Fit, Get Real!” held on November 12-13, 2024. The event also aligned with the observance of International Men’s Day, celebrated annually on November 19, which highlights the importance of men’s health and their valuable contributions to families, communities, and society.
This year’s theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” encouraged men to take responsibility for their health—both physical and mental. The event aimed to challenge traditional perceptions of masculinity and address societal expectations that often discourage men from seeking medical help or prioritizing their well-being.
“In our society, men are often expected to be strong, resilient, and unwavering—but in the process, their own health and self-care can take a backseat. ‘Men need care too!’ is not just a slogan; it is a reminder that self-care is not a sign of weakness but a vital part of maintaining overall well-being,” said Ms. Maria Marjorie M. Castillo, Director of WGAD. She emphasized the need to break down the stigma surrounding men’s health and encourage open dialogue about mental and physical wellness.
Ms. Castillo further explained the broader significance of the program. “This initiative emphasizes the need to improve the health and well-being of men globally. It aligns with the key objectives of International Men’s Day, particularly promoting a holistic approach to men’s health. It also aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for male faculty and staff across all three campuses of MinSU. By raising awareness about the importance of preventive care and proactive health management, we hope to inspire lasting change,” she stressed.
The Men’s Health Month program offered male faculty and staff a variety of health services, including medical consultations, blood pressure checks, fasting blood sugar tests, and urine screenings. Complementing these services were wellness presentations and interactive workshops that fostered discussions on healthy living, emotional well-being, and the significance of self-care.
“The goal of this initiative is not only to provide essential health services but to inspire a culture of health and wellness that extends beyond this event,” Ms. Castillo explained. “We want to encourage men to engage in open dialogue about their well-being and to take proactive steps toward improving their quality of life.”
Throughout the two-day event, participants had the opportunity to learn about healthy living and mental wellness in a supportive, stigma-free environment. “Men’s Health 101” aimed to create a lasting impact by fostering a culture where men feel empowered to prioritize their health without fear of judgment.
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