Councilor Edison Bilog has proposed an ordinance providing free prostate screening services to all male senior citizens in Baguio City as part of the city government’s effort to promote healthcare and protect the well-being of the elderly.
The proposed measure aims to ensure early detection of prostate-related diseases and make essential health services accessible to all registered senior residents.
Under the proposed ordinance, all male senior citizens residing in Baguio City and registered with the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) will be eligible for free prostate scanning services. The program is designed to reach as many beneficiaries as possible to address common barriers such as financial constraints, lack of awareness, or fear of medical procedures.
The City Health Services Office (CHSO) will lead the implementation of the program, working in coordination with OSCA, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and accredited hospitals or medical institutions. The CHSO will conduct regular prostate screening drives at designated city health centers or partner hospitals, provide health counseling, and maintain confidential records of beneficiaries for medical follow-up.
Screening activities are scheduled to occur at least twice a year, or more frequently as deemed necessary, and will be complemented by information and education campaigns to raise awareness about prostate health and preventive care.
The ordinance provides an initial P2 million from the CHSO budget to start the program, with future funding included in the City’s annual budget to keep it running.
The proposed ordinance was approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council on November 3, 2025 and was referred to the Committee on Health and Sanitation, Ecology, and Environmental Protection for review. **Jordan G. Habbiling
