ILOILO City — Underscoring concerns that poor oral health continues to affect the well-being of many Filipinos and contribute to broader health complications, the Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has intensified its campaign against oral diseases by bringing a large-scale oral health education drive to Miag-ao, Iloilo.
The Oral Health Celebration held on June 19 gathered national and local health officials, government agencies, and community stakeholders in a coordinated effort to raise awareness and promote preventive oral healthcare at the grassroots level.
“Oral health is not just about maintaining a beautiful smile; it is a vital component of overall health,” said DOH Region 6 director Dr. Helen Tobias.
She noted that oral diseases remain a significant public health challenge, affecting the quality of life of many Filipinos while also increasing the risk of other health complications.
The event featured expert-led discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive learning activities aimed at teaching participants proper oral hygiene practices and disease prevention measures.
Health educators stressed the importance of daily oral care routines, saying these habits can significantly reduce the risk of oral diseases and contribute to healthier lifestyles.
To reinforce key lessons, organizers conducted knowledge-retention activities that encouraged participants to actively engage and collaborate during the sessions.
The community-based approach was designed to make health education more accessible and practical, enabling participants to apply what they learned in their everyday lives.
Throughout the celebration, health officials reiterated their commitment to addressing oral health concerns through education and preventive interventions.
“Through education and proactive engagement, we can significantly reduce the burden of oral diseases and enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community,” said DOH-6 Oral Health Program Coordinator Dr. Ramon Mateo Grecia Jr.
The event also received support from DOH Undersecretary Dr. Emmie Liza Perez-Chiong, who highlighted ongoing government efforts to strengthen health services and health education programs across Western Visayas./PN
