CAPIZ—The World Diabetes Day celebration in Pontevedra, Capiz on November 14 marked a significant milestone in strengthening diabetes awareness and promoting a healthier community through the event titled “Sugarush: Run for Diabetes Awareness.”
The activity drew strong support from local partners, stakeholders, and residents who collectively worked to raise public understanding of diabetes and encourage preventive measures.
The Capiz Provincial Health Office, led by Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Alex T. Nolasco, extended its appreciation to the Department of Health–Western Visayas Center for Health Development for supporting the initiative.
Health officials noted that diabetes continues to rise as a major public health issue, largely driven by lifestyle patterns that increase the risk of obesity and related complications. With this, local health authorities are amplifying their call for healthier food choices, regular physical activity, and routine medical check-ups.
“Community engagement is key to overcoming this challenge. By raising awareness, we can empower individuals to take charge of their health and make informed decisions,” Dr. Nolasco said.
Studies show that early detection and proper management of diabetes can significantly reduce complications and improve a patient’s quality of life. In line with this, the celebration also highlighted the importance of providing free screenings and educational support, especially to underserved communities.
The event’s success was made possible through the assistance of partner agencies that ensured safety, order, and medical readiness. These include Pontevedra Emergency Response Team (PERT), Pontevedra Philippine National Police (PNP), Pontevedra Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Traffic Management Unit (TMU), barangays of Bailan, Malag-it, and Tacas, including their Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) and Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs), Medical teams from Bailan District Hospital and the Capiz Provincial Health Office, and the Capiz State University – Pontevedra Campus
Despite the unpredictable weather, participants—ranging from four to seventy-two years old—enthusiastically joined the run, showcasing strong community commitment to promoting diabetes awareness. Their participation underscored the vital role of public involvement in advancing health advocacy.
Also present during the event were Pontevedra Mayor Henry D. Tumlos, Municipal Health Officer Dr. Marizen V. Nolasco of the Pontevedra Primary Care Facility, and Sangguniang Bayan Member on Health Vincent Bolina.
The continued collaboration among local government units, health offices, and educational institutions reflects a broader mission to extend health resources and knowledge to all sectors of the community. With the unwavering support of medical teams, emergency services, and volunteers, efforts to promote diabetes education and care in Capiz remain steadfast./PN
