Dr. Lotis M. Balala, former executive board secretary of the Philippine One Health University Network (PhilOHUN), recently participated in two major Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN) activities in Thailand to reinforce commitment in advancing One Health initiatives across the region.

Photo: Dr. Balala with other delegates for the ISAH & SEAOHUN conference

The first event was the SEAOHUN 2024 International Conference, held on September 18-19, 2024, at the Shangri-La Hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Under the theme “One Health in Action,” the conference gathered professionals from academia, researchers, and policymakers across Southeast Asia. Aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), the event served as a collaborative platform to enhance One Health capacities, promote education, and address climate-related health challenges in the region.

Dr. Balala also participated in the SEAOHUN Regional Proposal Development Training Workshop on January 21-23, 2025, at the Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok Ploenchit in Bangkok, Thailand. The workshop aimed to strengthen grant proposal writing skills among SEAOHUN member universities, equipping participants with hands-on experience to secure funding for One Health-related projects. The workshop, contributing to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), strengthened collaboration among SEAOHUN member universities. Attendees included representatives from Thailand (THOHUN), Vietnam (VOHUN), Indonesia (INDOHUN), and Malaysia (MyOHUN). Dr. Melbourne Talactac from Cavite State University, the current chair of PhilOHUN, also represented the Philippines.

Dr. Balala’s participation highlighted the strong partnership between VSU and PhilOHUN, which aims to build a competent One Health workforce in the country. Dr. Balala shared, “These events provided invaluable opportunities for professional growth and networking with regional experts on One Health.” As a member of PhilOHUN, VSU continues to collaborate with SEAOHUN, its mother unit, to address global health challenges through education, innovation, and regional cooperation.

Photo: Dr. Balala with fellow participants and organizers

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3 – Good Health and Well-being, SGD No. 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG No. 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG No. 17 – Partnerships for the Goals]

 

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