Saving Lives, One Compression at a Time: BukSU Participates in the National Mass CPR Demonstration

On July 17, 2025, the quiet atmosphere of the Bukidnon State University (BukSU) Front Lawn transformed into a vibrant learning ground where preparedness met purpose. In a unified effort to strengthen emergency response capabilities across its workforce, BukSU, through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Unit, hosted a Mass Demonstration on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for administrative and service units under the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance (OVPAF).

This life-saving initiative brought together staff and volunteers for a powerful cause which is to equip ordinary individuals with extraordinary readiness to respond to one of the most urgent medical emergencies which is a cardiac arrest.

At the forefront of the demonstration were the highly skilled personnel from the Malaybalay City Bureau of Fire Protection, led by Chief Inspector Ma. Anjelyn P. Pornia. With professionalism and clarity, FO3 Dave Daniel I. Dales and FO2 Alfred R. Rabago facilitated the practical sessions, walking participants through the critical steps of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Their expertise transformed what could have been a passive learning event into an engaging, hands-on experience that left lasting impressions on everyone involved.

The demonstration focused on the core elements of Basic Life Support (BLS) emphasizing scene safety, recognition of cardiac arrest, proper chest compression techniques, and the effective use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), where applicable. Using training mannequins, participants were able to practice their skills with accuracy and receive immediate guidance from the facilitators.

More than just acquiring a technical skill, the participants were encouraged to embrace the mindset of a responder. The BFP team underscored the critical role of bystanders during the first few minutes of a cardiac event in which such moments that often determine life or death. By empowering university personnel to act in those moments, the event contributed meaningfully to BukSU’s larger vision of building a resilient, life-saving academic community.

For BukSU participants, the activity is more than just a one-time event. It is part of a sustained effort to integrate public health advocacy and disaster resilience into the heart of university life. In doing so, the institution directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting accessible life-saving education and fostering a culture of preparedness.

As the final compressions were performed and the last round of feedback shared, one truth rang clear: preparedness saves lives. And on that day, BukSU took one more meaningful step in ensuring that its people, whether in classrooms, offices, or hallways, are not only witnesses to emergencies but trained responders ready to make a difference. (Rhondell M. Paraiso, DRRMU Head)