Isabela sets year-round health campaigns after health promotion body reorganization

A series of year-round health campaigns targeting road safety, maternal and newborn care, infectious diseases, and youth wellness is set to roll out in the province following the orientation of newly reconstituted members of the Health Promotion Committee on April 29 at GFND Memorial Hospital.

The activity not only introduced a packed lineup of health promotion programs but also equipped committee members with the policy direction, strategies, and responsibilities they will carry out in the coming months as part of a stronger push toward preventive and community-based healthcare.

The newly reconstituted committee is composed of representatives from Provincial Government of Isabela departments, with the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) leading the implementation of health programs, along with educational institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations (CSOs), and city and provincial Department of Health (DOH) offices.

During the orientation, Erlindo L. Cauilan Jr., Provincial Universal Health Care (UHC) Coordinator, provided an overview of the UHC Act and its relevance to strengthening health promotion and integrating local health systems.

Pauline Keith D. Atal from the Health Promotion Unit (HEPU) of the DOH–Cagayan Valley Center for Health Development (DOH-CVCHD) discussed the Health Promotion Framework Strategy, while Maria Victoria C. Ocampo, HEPO III of the IPHO-HEPU, outlined the mandate, structure, and functions of the Health Promotion Committee in developing proactive and effective policies and programs.

Meanwhile, Dominic A. Vargas, also from the HEPU of DOH-CVCHD, oriented members on the Healthy Workplaces Program, which is set to be implemented in the province as part of expanding health promotion efforts into workplace settings.

With its newly organized structure, Harijhon S. Alabon Jr., Nurse II of the IPHO, said the committee is expected to take the lead in implementing a series of coordinated health campaigns throughout the year.

Mobilizing for a Healthier Isabela

Upcoming activities include initiatives for Road Safety Awareness Month and Hypertension Awareness Month, alongside maternal and newborn health programs such as LAB U NAY and Buntis, Nutrisyon, at Bakuna Plus Control, as well as community-based campaigns on rabies prevention and parent-teen engagement.

Efforts will also focus on raising awareness on G6PD deficiency, strengthening patient management, and conducting stakeholder forums on measles through the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR SIA). Mental health caravans, dengue awareness campaigns, and spraying activities are likewise lined up.

The province will also implement programs targeting vulnerable sectors, including the provision of integrated social services for special population groups and youth-centered initiatives like Teen Talk and Isabelino Youth Rising, which promote health awareness, resilience, and responsible decision-making.

In addition, community-based interventions such as Finding Cases, Protecting Lungs for early tuberculosis detection and vaccination drives for children will be conducted, alongside a province-wide immunization campaign against measles and rubella.

By the third quarter, the Kilatis Kutis program will be carried out to promote early detection and prevention of leprosy through skin health assessment and community education.

The lineup will also include intensified efforts during National Children’s Month, such as the National Immunization Program, newborn screening services, environmental and occupational health campaigns, and oral health programs.

PHO II Dr. Nelson O. Paguirigan said the coordinated rollout of these programs reflects the committee’s strengthened role following its reconstitution, positioning it to lead more strategic and preventive health initiatives across Isabela, adding that “health promotion is at the heart of everything the provincial government does.”

COH II Dr. Almira L. Reyes, echoing the priorities of Governor Rodito T. Albano, said the province is working toward a stronger and more responsive health system, with efforts focused on turning health promotion into lasting impact for every Isabelino. – Isabela PIO