Every summer, young Filipino boys take part in a long-standing cultural tradition by undergoing circumcision. This annual practice marks an important rite of passage in the Philippines. To support the families in the local community, E. Yusay Elementary School in Sto. Niño Norte, Arevalo, hosted a highly successful Operation Tuli last May 30, 2026. This activity was conducted under the NURSE (Nurses and Nutritionists Unified Response through (health) Services Education – Health Promotion and Education) Program of CNND, specifically the RELIEF project, which aims to render health services based on the needs of the community.
While the tradition itself is common, the environment in which it takes place is critical. In community medical missions, strict adherence to health protocols is the highest priority. Sterilization matters. Proper sanitization of surgical instruments, the use of clean supplies, and a hygienic operating environment are essential to prevent post-operative infections and ensure a fast, safe recovery for the children. Furthermore, this activity served as an excellent venue for the execution of the Service Learning on Wound Care. The organizers of this event made sure that standard clinical practices were strictly followed, giving parents and clients absolute peace of mind.
Providing this level of safe and accessible surgical care requires strong coordination, and the success of the event was a direct result of collective effort. We extend our deepest thanks to the individuals and organizations whose support made this Operation Tuli possible. Our utmost appreciation goes to our Dean, Fr. John Louis S. Ricarmora, OSA, for his invaluable support and leadership, as well as to our PHN Coordinator, Ma’am Ma. Jane P. Villanueva, whose guidance was instrumental in executing this mission.
We also offer our heartfelt gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve Command Medical Corps, headed by Dr. (LTC) Pacifico Dalisay, Jr., and coordinated through 2LT Sweet Lyn Balleza, S1 Adjutant, for providing expert care and maintaining the highest medical standards.
Crucial to the seamless flow of the event was the support of the local government unit of Sto. Niño Norte, Arevalo, as well as the participation of the LGU of Calumpang, through Sir Virgilio Abaquita, whose combined efforts maintained peace, order, and security throughout the activity.
We also extend our sincere thanks to E. Yusay Elementary School. The school is graciously providing the venue for this community mission.
Additionally, we thank the NAP of CNND, courtesy of Ms. Rowena “Weng” P. Gonzales, for providing the necessary resources, support, and organization to help bring the RELIEF project to life.
Last but not least, we warmly recognize our dedicated academic staff and nursing learners. Your hard work, strict attention to patient safety, and dedication to every patient were vital to the mission’s success.
The combined efforts of all these volunteers provided an essential public health service to the families of Arevalo, ensuring this important summer tradition was carried out safely.
📷: Gullo, Dale Mitchell C.
✍️: Gullo, Dale Mitchell C., Lee, Luis Bryan
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