OPERATION MANHOOD Free Circumcision
Because of the tradition and somehow poverty among Filipino families, many lads are at risk of botched circumcisions performed by unqualified operators. Circumcision or “Tuli” is considered a rite of passage into manhood. The origins of this tradition are unclear, yet it is an essential social aspect in the Filipino community.
However, this rite is not easy and studies show that the majority of Filipino boys suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from this event. Moreover, Boyle and Ramos (2019) highlighted that 69% of the Tuli group exhibited PTSD symptoms which is higher in comparison to 51% of boys circumcised by medical operators.
With these alarming reports, the University of Perpetual Help System Laguna, through its Community Outreach Department (COD), headed by Ms. Clarisse Anne G. Lebios, in partnership with UPH-DJGTMU COP headed by Mr. Timothy John Toledo and Alumni Association with its President Precy Lantin hosted an outreach entitled: "Project Manhood: Free Circumcision” at Pedro H. Escueta Memorial Elementary School on June 14, 2024 (Friday).
The event was supported and sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Maritime Education, College of International and Hospitality Management, Senior High School, Graduate School, UPH-Medical Center, JONELTA Clinical Division, Unified Laguna Pharmacy Alumni Association Inc., Biñan Lion's Club, and Pedro H. Escueta MES headed by Principal Jonard Castillo.
Beyond the medical procedure itself, more than 200 beneficiaries received the before-and-aftercare counseling from our Psychology, Nursing, and CPD student volunteers to prevent the possibility of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).Moreover, they were provided with complimentary medical supplies that the lads needed for a week of recovery.