PAVIA, Iloilo — To prevent foodborne illnesses and strengthen public health at the community level, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has intensified its food safety campaign by directly engaging local food handlers and business owners.
An IPHO team recently conducted a Food Safety Orientation in partnership with the Pavia Primary Care Facility, bringing together food business owners, food handlers, and local partners for a comprehensive discussion on safe food practices from preparation to consumption.
The orientation focused on proper food handling, prevention of cross-contamination, safe food storage, strict adherence to sanitation standards, and the critical role of personal hygiene in protecting consumers.
“This initiative reinforces our ongoing effort to build safer, healthier communities by empowering local food handlers with the knowledge and skills they need to prevent foodborne illnesses,” the IPHO said.
Health officials cited common foodborne illnesses such as cholera, diarrhea, typhoid, amebiasis, hepatitis, gastroenteritis, giardiasis, scabies, and worm infections as persistent risks that can be reduced through proper food safety practices.
According to IPHO, strengthening food safety measures is essential not only for protecting public health but also for maintaining the confidence and well-being of families who rely on local food establishments.
The provincial health office said it will continue its mission to safeguard, support, and uplift the health of Ilonggos through sustained education and community-based interventions./PN
