The city’s public health programs came into focus during the Philippine Society of Public Health Physicians National Convention held in Cebu City on Sept. 20-21, 2024.
City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) Head Dr. Donnabel Panes of the City Health Services Office represented Mayor Benjamin Magalong in the well attended conference which featured Baguio’s public health care endeavors along with those of Mandaue City and Agusan del Sur.
Panes presented the various health crises encountered by the city detailing their histories, challenges faced, strategies implemented and the milestones achieved.
She also demonstrated how important the support of local government leaders is in times of health challenges relating the city’s key experiences on the pandemic and disease outbreaks.
With the lessons learned from these health challenges, Panes shared the city’s journey in learning to adapt to the changes, developments and occurrences happening in the world that have an impact on the public health sector.
She also touched on the crucial role of the local health executive in crisis management and in the success of the Universal Health Care Program.
The convention which was attended by more than 300 participants from all over the Philippines focused on the theme, “Lihok: Integrating Solutions, Transforming Public Health.”
Dr. Anthony Rosendo Faraon, deputy executive director of Zuellig Family Foundation and chair of the Philippine Society of Public Health Physicians, in his article published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer said the gathering provided insightful discussions on three critical challenges: “enhancing health-seeking behaviors, improving health leadership and governance, and balancing educational curricula to bridge the gap between clinical and public health education…(which are)… pivotal in shaping how we address public health disparities and enhance service delivery.”
“The sessions revealed that local health executives are at the forefront of implementing innovative solutions. Presentations from representatives of Baguio City, Mandaue City, and Agusan del Sur not only illustrated significant improvements in local health systems but also underscored the dedication of health workers who, despite obstacles, remain committed to serving their constituencies. Their stories are testaments to the power of grassroots innovation in building resilience amid challenges,” he said. ** Aileen P. Refuerzo
