ILOILO City – Health authorities in Western Visayas have intensified their campaign against tuberculosis by rolling out free screening and diagnostic services during a high-impact awareness drive, underscoring that early detection will determine whether the region can meet its 2030 TB elimination goal.
The Department of Health (DOH) partnership with the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) used the “Light Up PH for TB” initiative on March 24 to combine public awareness with direct health interventions, including free TB screening, HIV testing, and X-ray services.
Held at WVMC in observance of World Tuberculosis Day, the activity brought together the WVMC TB DOTS Unit, WVMC Public Health Unit, and the Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc. (PTSI), signalling a multi-sector push to curb one of the country’s most persistent infectious diseases.
Anchored on the theme, “Illuminating the Path Toward Ending Tuberculosis by 2030,” the campaign aimed to align local efforts with national and global targets while urging communities to treat TB as a pressing public health priority.
Beyond the ceremonial lighting of the facility in red — a color symbolizing urgency — the event emphasized concrete action, particularly expanding access to early diagnosis and treatment.
Health officials stressed that community participation remains critical in breaking the chain of transmission.
Dr. Joseph Dean Nicolo, Medical Center Chief II of WVMC, and Dr. Maria Luna Parreño, head of the hospital’s TB DOTS Unit, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration across sectors and scaling up interventions.
They highlighted that partnerships between government, healthcare providers, and civil society are key to sustaining gains in TB control.
From the private sector, Charity Perea, branch manager of PTSI Iloilo, underscored the role of non-government organizations in complementing government efforts, particularly in awareness campaigns and patient support.
Officials from the Health Promotion and Communications Management Section (HPCMS) of DOH WV CHD also pushed for stronger public engagement, noting that misinformation and stigma continue to hinder early consultation and treatment.
Dr. Fritzi Ann Suzette Jeroso-Dequito, HPCMS head, and Penny Exocet Hubag, Health Education and Promotion Officer III, emphasized that clear communication and sustained education campaigns are essential in encouraging individuals to seek timely care.
DOH said the initiative reflects a broader strategy that integrates awareness, screening, and treatment services — moving beyond symbolic observances to measurable health outcomes./PN
