By Prof. Abdulrasid T. Lucman
Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus successfully hosted the advanced celebration of World Heart Day 2025 on Sunday, September 28, at the MSU Grandstand, bringing together students and faculty in a meaningful health awareness initiative.
The event, themed “Don’t Miss the Beat,” was organized by the Philippine Heart Association – Northwestern Mindanao Chapter, headed by Dr. Nashiba Daud, the Chapter President, in cooperation with the APMC Heart Institute, the APMC IM Department, the PMA-Lanao del Sur Medical Society, and IPHO-Lanao del Sur.
The celebration began early at 6:00 AM with assembly and registration, followed by an opening prayer led by Dr. Sohaili Laguindab. Dr. Nashiba Daud delivered her opening and welcome remarks. Executive Vice President Dr. Abdulcader Ayo, serving as OIC President, provided an inspirational and welcome message, while Prof. Abdulrasid T. Lucman, NSTP Director, provided inspirational messages to the participants.
A highlight of the event was the “Zumba for the Heart” session from 6:45 to 7:00 AM, which energized participants before the formation of a human heart symbol — a powerful visual representation of unity in promoting cardiovascular health awareness.
The program’s centerpiece was a comprehensive Hands-Only CPR Training session that ran from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. This crucial life-skills training was conducted by distinguished PHA Faculty and Trainers, including Dr. Sohaili Laguindab, Dr. Mohammad Al-Moqtader Abedin, Dr. Aslia Lampa, Dr. Naima Perez, Dr. Nashiba Daud, Dr. Asimah Mangondaya, and Dr. Asleah Tago, along with PHA-NW Chapter Cardiologists and IM Residents.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from students across various colleges, including the College of Health Sciences, the College of Education, and the College of SPEAR, as well as ROTC and CWTS students, demonstrating MSU’s commitment to holistic health education.
Dr. Bai Sitti Ameerah Asleah B. Tago served as the Master of Ceremonies, expertly guiding the day’s proceedings. The celebration concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Mohammad Al-Moqtader A. Abedin, followed by a photo opportunity for all participants.
This World Heart Day celebration successfully raised awareness about cardiovascular health while equipping participants with essential life-saving skills, reinforcing the importance of heart health education in academic institutions.
