ILOILO – Passi City has taken the lead in Western Visayas by becoming the first local government unit to launch a Healthy Workplace Program, a bold initiative designed to protect workers from stress, illness, and burnout while boosting productivity and morale.
The landmark program, rolled out on Sept. 19, was developed with the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and the Department of Health (DOH)-Western Visayas. It aims to make health and wellness an essential part of every office and workplace, setting a precedent for other LGUs in the region.
“Let’s build a workplace where health is prioritized, where balance is respected, and where people feel empowered to bring their best — not because they’re pushing through exhaustion, but because they feel supported, energized, and well,” declared Mayor Stephen Palmares, underscoring the city’s commitment to reshaping workplace culture.
The launch was graced by top health officials, including Dr. Fritzi Ann Suzette Jeroso Dequito of the DOH Health Promotion and Communications Management Section; Dr. Wendel T. Marcelo, Provincial Health Officer I of IPHO; and Pilar Lamanosa, DMO IV of the Provincial DOH Office of Iloilo. Their presence affirmed the crucial link between local governments and health authorities in championing employee welfare.
Dr. Dequito emphasized that the program carries real weight. “A healthy workforce is the heart of a resilient, productive, and thriving city,” she said, noting that the initiative is about transforming work culture into one that uplifts rather than drains employees.
Under the program, employees will benefit from health promotion activities, stress management resources, and structured strategies for creating safer, healthier work environments. City officials said the goal is to cut absenteeism, prevent workplace-related illnesses, and foster a wellness-driven culture with positive economic and community-wide impacts.
In a statement, IPHO urged others to adopt similar initiatives: “Together, the community can cultivate healthier, safer, and more supportive workplaces, paving the way for a thriving society where every Juan and Juana is empowered to contribute to the growth and prosperity of their city.”
Health officials hope more municipalities and cities will follow, making healthier workplaces not just an aspiration but a standard across Western Visayas./PN
