31/03/2026
4-7 March 2026
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In celebration of Womenβs Month, Benguet State University, through the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD), in collaboration with the College of Social Sciences (Departments of Psychology, Anthropology, and Sociology), the International Relations Office, and the Gender and Development Office, successfully conducted the βTraditional Chinese Medicine Learning and Healing Sessionsβ
The four-day initiative highlighted the universityβs commitment to fostering international collaboration and culturally grounded approaches to health and wellbeing, bringing together local communities and global practitioners in a shared space of learning and healing. A total of 132 patients availed of the services throughout the activity.
The engagement formally opened with a courtesy call to Hon. Roderick Chiok Awingan and President Kenneth Laruan, affirming institutional and local government support for cross-cultural health initiatives.
At the core of the program was a specialized clinic held at the International Dormitory lobby, led by Paul Weidian Chen, a fourth-generation Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctor, together with his team from Zion International OrganizationβEsther Chen, Jimmy Cheung, and Riki A. Gudelano. Through pulse diagnosis, acupuncture, cupping, and herbal recommendations, the team provided holistic and personalized care, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
βAs a Chinese medicine practitioner, I am very honored to participate in the βTraditional Chinese Medicine Learning and Healing Sessionβ organized by BSU during Womenβs Monthβ¦ In just 20 or 30 minutes, many participants felt obvious relaxation and reliefβ¦ The essence of TCM is not only relieving symptoms, but helping individuals regain inner balance and vitality. Without these cross-cultural efforts, the warmth of TCM would not reach communities like Benguet. I look forward to more cooperation in the future,β said Dr. Chen reflecting on the experience.
Beyond clinical services, the program also fostered intercultural learning and environmental awareness. During session breaks, Esther Chen led informal nature walks, introducing participants to medicinal plants found within the campus and demonstrating how everyday flora can support health and healing.
Participants included BSU employees and their families, students, local elders, and community members from surrounding areasβreflecting the programβs inclusive and community-centered approach.
The initiative further underscored the value of people-to-people connections in internationalization efforts, where knowledge exchange goes beyond classrooms and into lived, embodied experiences of care and wellness.
βHonored to be part of BSUβs Alternative Mobile Clinic Initiativeβ¦My deepest gratitude to Mayor Hon. Roderick Chiok Awingan, and BSU President Kenneth Laruan for their visionary leadership and support. It was truly rewarding to see the impact of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the La Trinidad community,β said TCM team member Jimmy Cheung.
Through initiatives such as this, BSU continues to strengthen its global linkages while grounding international partnerships in meaningful community engagementβadvancing both health and sustainable peace through cross-cultural collaboration.//