Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) proudly participated in the Bandung International Conference of Medical and Health Science (BICMHS) 2025 through an online oral research presentation. The international conference, held in Bandung, Indonesia, brought together scholars, educators, and researchers from various countries to present studies addressing pressing issues in public health and medical sciences on October 11, 2025. This international engagement is one of the many endeavors under HCCCI’s internationalization flagship program, ORBIT (Opportunities for Reskilling, Bridging, Internationalization, and Training), which provides avenues for global exposure, research collaboration, and cross-cultural learning.

The Bandung International Conference of Medical and Health Science served as a platform for advancing research and innovation in healthcare, aiming to strengthen global health systems through collaboration and knowledge exchange. The conference emphasized public health, community well-being, and evidence-based practices, underscoring the importance of inclusive and sustainable healthcare solutions.

Representing HCCCI in this international endeavor was Lovely Mae R. Fantilanan, Content and Publication Writer of HCCCI. Her participation brought great pride to the institution as she shared her study before an international audience of academics and health professionals—earning recognition as one of the Best Oral Presenters.

Her study, titled “Public Health Challenges and Cultural Practices of Indigenous People in the Municipality of Surallah: Implications for Accessible and Culturally Sensitive Health Services,” delves into the realities faced by indigenous communities in South Cotabato. The research explores how geographical distance, economic limitations, and cultural beliefs influence healthcare access, disease prevention, and overall well-being. Through surveys and interviews with indigenous leaders, the study advocates for health programs that honor cultural identity while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

This research advances the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting accessible, inclusive, and culturally sensitive healthcare for indigenous communities, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). It also underscores the vital role of education and global collaboration in fostering sustainable health practices, resonating with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Within the community, the study serves as a guiding framework for health workers and policymakers to design culturally grounded and respectful health programs. Beyond local borders, it opens global discussions on how blending traditional and modern healthcare systems can lead to more inclusive and enduring health solutions.

Miss Fantilanan expressed her gratitude and pride in representing HCCCI at the international conference, stating: “The experience strengthened my passion for public health research and deepened my understanding of the vital connection between culture and healthcare accessibility.”

Looking ahead, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing researchers and innovators who strive to improve community welfare. Providing opportunities for international collaboration and research engagement continues to be a key priority—reflecting the institution’s core values of excellence, service, and integrity.