BAGUIO CITY — The College of Respiratory Therapy of Pines City Colleges (PCC) marked Lung Month this August with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness on lung health and the vital role of respiratory therapists in patient care.
The celebration of Lung Month at Pines City Colleges (PCC) embodied the theme “Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life: No to Smoking & Vaping, Yes to Life” by raising awareness on the importance of lung health and the harmful effects of smoking and vaping. The celebration emphasized smoking cessation, respiratory disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle practices, particularly directed toward Senior High School students as future advocates of wellness.
The event officially commenced on August 14 at PCC, where 80 Senior High School students from Pines City Colleges—Senior High School participated in interactive demonstrations at the Skills Laboratory. Faculty and Respiratory Therapy students showcased intensive care procedures, including airway management, pulmonary function testing, and mechanical ventilation. Participants were also trained in life-saving techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and choking response, providing them with vital skills that may be applied in emergencies.
The advocacy further extended into the community on August 28 at Palew Elementary School, where children were introduced to the fundamentals of Basic Life Support (BLS) and cough etiquette. Through this outreach program, the vital role of immediate recognition and action during emergencies was reinforced. Empowering the younger generation with life-saving knowledge.
The month-long celebration culminated on August 29 at PCC with 30 students from Pines City National High School, who received hands-on exposure to advanced respiratory care equipment such as neonatal incubators, ventilators, and noninvasive respiratory support devices like CPAP and BiPAP. Beyond technical training, discussions on anatomy, the dangers of smoking and vaping, and smoking cessation strategies reinforced the broader health advocacy message of the event.
In a show of support, Senior High School participants also pledged their commitment to promoting a smoke-free and vape-free lifestyle, strengthening the call for youth-led advocacy on lung health and wellness.
Through these initiatives, PCC not only celebrated Lung Month but also actively promoted smoking cessation among the youth, encouraged healthy living, and inspired students to consider careers in allied health, particularly respiratory therapy. The celebration highlighted the crucial role of respiratory therapists in patient care and prevention, leaving a lasting impact on the participants by connecting education, advocacy, and professional inspiration under one common goal—healthy lungs for a healthy life. #Michiko Ramirez
