ILOILO — The Iloilo Provincial Government has intensified its oral health campaign this February, bringing preventive dental services directly to communities and serving 327 children in Leganes town as part of the observance of National Oral Health Month.
Through the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), the province is promoting the theme “Tara na! Cleaning at Fluoride, Sa’n Ka Pa? #PhilHealth OralHealthBenefit,” underscoring both preventive care and the availability of PhilHealth-supported oral health services.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, IPHO, led by Dr. Maris Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, emphasized the importance of proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
“This Oral Health Month, discover important facts about keeping your smile healthy and strong. Good oral care doesn’t just protect your teeth, it helps keep your whole body healthy too,” she stressed.
Health officials also highlighted that tooth decay remains the most common disease worldwide — even more prevalent than flu — stressing that cavities stem from neglect rather than sugar alone, making regular dental checkups essential.
As part of the campaign, the IPHO conducted Preventive Oral Care Services in Leganes, combining advocacy, health promotion, and the distribution of oral hygiene kits to schoolchildren. A total of 327 children benefited from the activity, reinforcing the province’s commitment to early prevention and community-based health education.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our facilitators, partners, parents, and constituents for their unwavering support and cooperation. This successful initiative was made possible through your shared commitment to safeguarding the oral health and well-being of our children,” IPHO stated.
Provincial health officials said the month-long observance aims to build long-term habits among Ilonggos, particularly children, by promoting daily brushing, fluoride use, and routine dental consultations as key defenses against preventable oral diseases./PN
