ILOILO — In a unified effort to promote community health and wellness, the municipalities of Sta. Barbara and Pavia in this province have officially launched the Department of Health’s (DOH) PuroKalusugan program.
This comprehensive program is part of DOH’s strengthened campaign that aims to advance proactive and preventive healthcare measures, ensuring that primary healthcare services are accessible to all residents, especially in underserved communities.
Pavia rolled out the program on November 24 at the town’s multi-purpose gymnasium, offering basic health checks, including vital sign assessments.
Municipal Health Officer Dr. Carleone L. Borda, along with OIC Provincial Department of Health Officer (PDOHO) Dr. Clodaludo B. Divinagracia Jr. and a team of healthcare professionals, also led discussions on critical health topics.
Participants were educated on maternal and child health, nutrition, immunization programs, and the management of tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus, and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
The said initiative was supported by the Office of the Mayor, underscoring the municipality’s ongoing commitment to making healthcare services more accessible and improving the overall well-being of its residents.
Meanwhile, in Sta. Barbara, PuroKalusugan launch was highlighted by the implementation of three dynamic, community-centered initiatives designed to make a direct impact on public health.
Residents of Barangay Magancina benefited from various health services including free cervical cancer screenings and dental check-ups, bringing lifesaving women’s health care and essential oral health support directly to the community.
With the united efforts of DOH Human Resources for Health under NHWSS, the Sta. Barbara local government, Rural Health Unit personnel, clinical clerks, nursing students, partner pharmaceutical companies, and barangay health teams, participants received free Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid screening, breast self-examination education, dental assessments, fluoride treatment for children, and maternal supplements.
A total of 229 women were screened, 56 of whom were referred for further evaluation –underscoring how timely screening and early detection can prevent serious illnesses and save lives.
Moreover, a PuroKalusugan Motoskwela symposium was held at Payao National High School to equip learners with essential road safety knowledge.
Through the guidance of the Motorcycle Philippines Federation and DOH HRH personnel, learners explored responsible driving, proper safety gear, situational awareness, and mental readiness. This initiative strengthened efforts to reduce road-related injuries and instilled a stronger culture of safety among the youth.
In Barangay Tuburan, the PuroKalusugan First Aid Workshop provided participants with practical emergency response training. Led by EMT professionals from the United Kabalikat Civicom Association and the Sta. Barbara Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the workshop covered essential skills such as bandaging techniques, proper handling of injured individuals, and basic life support. This hands-on training emphasized that informed, rapid action during emergencies can greatly impact outcomes in critical situations.
These simultaneous activities both in Pavia and Sta. Barbara embody the vision of PuroKalusugan – bringing essential health services closer to every household, empowering families with knowledge, and building stronger and more resilient communities./PN
