Saturday, January 18, 2025

Tag: Health

Northern Mindanao Inflation Drops to 2.6% in December 2024

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-10 reported that the headline inflation rate in Northern Mindanao for December 2024 was 2.6 percent, down from 4.8 percent in December 2023 and 2.7 percent in November 2024

PSA-10 Regional Director Janith Aves attributed the slowdown mainly to lower inflation in food and non-alcoholic beverages, which dropped to 1.8 percent in December from 2.9 percent in November.

Key food categories, including cereals, meat, and dairy, showed slower price increases in December. Cereal inflation fell from 6.0 percent in November to 2.2 percent, while meat inflation dropped from 2.1 percent to 1.3 percent.

Alcoholic beverages and tobacco also contributed to the decline, with inflation dropping to 7.7 percent in December from 8.2 percent in November. Meanwhile, cigarettes and spirits experienced slower price increases.

Health-related services also recorded a minor inflation reduction, from 5.7 percent in November to 5.6 percent in December, due to slower price hikes in inpatient services, medicines, and diagnostic products.

“The key contributors to the overall inflation in Health were inpatient curative and rehabilitative services, with an inflation rate of 12.5 percent in December 2024, slower than the 12.9 percent in November 2024. Medicines, vaccines, and other pharmaceutical preparations recorded an inflation rate of 3.2 percent, a decrease from 3.3 percent in November 2024. Medical diagnostic products had an inflation rate of 5.3 percent in December 2024, compared to 6.1 percent in the previous month,” Aves explained.

The Department of Health (DOH)-10 noted possible reasons for the rising costs of medicines, vaccines, and other pharmaceutical preparations.

Jovita Sarip, Statistician II of DOH-10, pointed out that transport costs for medicines and vaccines are potential factors. She mentioned that maintaining the cold chain, essential for preserving vaccine efficacy, likely contributes to higher costs. (Apipa P. Bagumbaran/PIA-10)

Hatud Serbisyo sa Barangay Alanib sa Lantapan nagmalampuson

Posted on by Melchor Madera

Sama sa naandan, nagmalampuson ang gipahigayon nga unang Hatud Serbisyo ning tuig sa Barangay Alanib sa Munisipyo sa Lantapan

Gidumog sa katawhan ang programa nga nagdala sa mga serbisyo sa covered court sa barangay kaniadtong Enero 3, 2025.


Sumala sa kasayoran, ang kalihokan gipangunahan ni Lantapan Mayor Ernie R. Devivar.


Ang mga National Offices sama sa LTO, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, ug SSS nakig-layon sa kalihokan.


Nakighiusa usab ang mga miyembro sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ug Provincial Agriculture Office, lakip na ang mga serbisyo medikal gikan sa probinsya.


Sa maong kalihokan, napahigayon usab ang public hearing alang sa pag-usab sa karaang Revenue Code nga nalatid pa sugod sa dos mil singko.


Ang bag-ong Revenue Code mao na unya ang mahimong basehan sa pagkolekta sa buhis alang sa mga tigpatigayon sa munisipyo. (melbmadera)

DOH implements ‘Purok Kalusugan,’ opens BUCAS centers in Normin

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (January 8, 2025) — ‘Purok Kalusugan’ and ‘Bagong (New) Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services’ (BUCAS) centers are two programs implemented by the Department of Health Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) under the Universal Health Care Act (UHC) that bring health services closer to the people, especially the farthest and smallest communities

In a press conference organized by the DOH-CHDNM, Dr. Steffi Grace H. Enon, DOH-CHDNM chief of the local health support division, shared that ‘Purok Kalusugan’ is aligned with the UHC. “Gikan sa iyang ngalan nga Purok Kalusugan, atong gusto nga ang mga serbisyo nga pangkalusugan o panglawas dal-on nato sa level sa purok,” she said.


(From its name, Purok Kalusugan, we want all services related to health and nutrition to be brought to the level of a zone.)


The UHC Act has many goals, said Enon, but its main goal is that “We want all Filipinos to experience health services that are accessible, affordable, close to them, of quality, and safe.”


The Purok Kalusugan program includes all eight priority health outcomes of DOH, which will be implemented at the “purok,” or zone level.


The eight priority health outcomes include vaccination, nutrition, water supply, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), maternal health, tuberculosis and HIV, road safety, non-communicable diseases (specifically high blood pressure and diabetes), and cancer.


These eight priority outcomes are called high burdens because many people are affected by them. The Department of Health is focusing on these eight. “If we can improve them, we can say that our community will be healthy,” Enon said.


Opening of BUCAS centers in Northern Mindanao


The Department of Health has launched a new initiative, the Bagong (New) Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) facility, under the management of DOH hospitals.


Dr. Raymond G. Dela Cruz, the chief of the regulations, licensing, and enforcement division at DOH-CHDNM, stated that this facility will address the issue of congestion in the region’s government hospitals.


“Kasagara niini ang problema, dugay sila maatiman tungod sa kadaghan, limitado ang lugar sa hospital aron maka-accommodate kanila, so ang initiative sa Department of Health mao nga i-forward position kining serbisyo sa atong mga komunidad nga ang mga hospital mu-perform og mga minor surgeries ug mga konsultasyon nga nagkinahanglan og espesyalista. Ang mga ancillary services, mga specialized laboratory exam, ug x-rays idala sa BUCAS centers,” Dela Cruz said.


(This is usually the problem; it takes a long time to attend to them because of the large number, and the hospital space is limited to accommodate them. So, the initiative of the Department of Health is to forward-position these services in our communities so that hospitals perform minor surgeries and consultations requiring specialists. Ancillary services, specialized laboratory exams, and x-rays will be brought to BUCAS centers.)


Currently, there are four operational BUCAS centers in Northern Mindanao. The North Eastern Misamis General Hospital, located in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, is one of the DOH hospitals; another in Misamis Occidental is located in Plaridel, managed by Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center (MHARS-MC), a tertiary government hospital in Ozamiz City. The next is in Mambajao, Camiguin, managed by Camiguin General Hospital; however, the purpose is to transfer this center to Sagay, Camiguin.


The idea of BUCAS, according to Dela Cruz, is to place it far from hospitals so that those who need services will go to the centers closer to their communities instead of the hospitals.


While DOH hospitals manage this initiative, local government units have generously volunteered to contribute significantly towards the construction of the centers.


Currently, there are four local governments in the pipeline that have volunteered to provide lots; one of them is Magsaysay in Misamis Oriental, Bacolod in Lanao del Norte, the Malaybalay local government unit in Bukidnon, and Balo-i in Lanao del Norte. (Jasper Marie O. Rucat/PIA-10)

Malaybalay buys P13.69-M five brand-new garbage compactors

Posted on by Melchor Madera

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO) of Malaybalay marked a significant milestone with the receipt of five brand-new garbage compactors

The five units, costing a total of Php 13,690,000.00, demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the city’s waste management infrastructure.
According to a press statement, the turnover ceremony for the five new garbage compactors was held in front of the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs on December 27, 2024.
The ceremony was attended by Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, city officials, department heads, and employees of the City Government of Malaybalay.
During the ceremony, Mayor Pabillaran officially handed over the compactors to Ms. Jessie G. Suson, the City Environment and Natural Resources Officer.
The new garbage compactors are expected to significantly enhance the city’s waste management capabilities.
Before acquiring these new compactors, the City ENRO operated with four units.
“These new units will greatly improve the city’s waste management and collection capabilities, making waste disposal more efficient and effective. This is crucial for the health and well-being of all residents.”
The delivery of the garbage compactors is part of a larger initiative that includes the purchase of new government vehicles for the fiscal year 2024.
This initiative also underscores Malaybalay’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable urban development.
Investing in modern waste management equipment not only enhances operational efficiency but also promotes an eco-friendly and sustainable city. (melbmadera)

12 paresan misalmot sa Tribal mass wedding

Posted on by Diego M. Hidalgo

Dose ka paresan sa Indigenous Peoples (IPs) ang nisalmot sa tribal mass wedding nga gipahigayon niadtong Agosto sa Covered Court sa Barangay Sumpong sa Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

Sumala sa kasayoran sa local government unit sa Malaybalay, ang kalihokan isa ka highlight sa “Araw ng Barangay Sumpong.”

Gitumong kini aron mapormal ang panaghiusa sa mga magtiayon nga nag-ipon na isip bana ug asawa.

Ang seremonyas gihimo subay sa naandang mga balaod, ritwal, ug tradisyon sa mga magtiayon, sumala sa gilatid sa Republic Act 8371 kon Indigenous Peoples Rights Act.

Si Datu Danny Sarito ang nangulo sa kasal, uban sa tabang ni Bae Inatlawan – Adelina Tarino ug Datu Chepin Jose Gumindan.

Gitinguha usab sa kalihokan nga masiguro nga ang mga magtiayon maka-access sa mga importanteng programa sa gobyerno, sama sa 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) ug PhilHealth.

Si City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, uban sa mga sakop sa Sangguniang Panlungsod, mga opisyal sa barangay, ug nagkalain-laing lider sa tribo, nitambong sa seremonyas aron pagpakita sa ilang suporta.

Anaa ang City Civil Registrar’s Office aron motabang sa pagpirma sa mga sertipiko sa kaminyoon, pagsiguro sa legal nga pag-ila sa ilang kaminyoon. (Diego M. Hidalgo)

Malaybalay buys P11.96M new garbage trucks

Posted on by Heber Quinco

The City Government of Malaybalay recently conducted a turnover and blessing ceremony for four brand-new garbage compactors purchased to enhance the city’s waste collection and management capabilities

The event took place on Monday, August 19, 2024, at the New City Hall Grounds in front of the Commission on Audit Office.

Key city officials, including members of the Sangguniang Panglungsod, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) led by its head, Ms. Jessie G. Suson, and Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, attended the ceremony.

The four garbage trucks, valued at a total of Php 11.96 million, were acquired as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve waste management services.

“These trucks will play a crucial role in ensuring more efficient and timely garbage collection,” Mayor Pabillaran stated during the event.

He emphasized the importance of responsible waste management, saying, “Kauban sa paglambo nato ang basura, busa responsibilidad nato kini (with progress comes waste, so it’s our responsibility to manage it).”

He also reminded the operators of the new vehicles to maintain them well, as they are vital to keeping the city clean.

Ms. Jessie Suson, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, expressed her gratitude during the turnover ceremony.

She assured the public that the CENRO would remain fully committed to fulfilling its responsibilities in maintaining a clean and healthy environment for the people of Malaybalay.

The acquisition and blessing of these new garbage trucks underscore the city’s dedication to strengthening its waste management infrastructure and its broader commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable Malaybalay City for all. (City ENRO-NADA)

Bukidnon logs over 5,000 dengue cases since January 2024

Posted on by cmn

Over 5,000 dengue cases have been recorded in Bukidnon from January to August 2024

According to the Provincial Health Office (PHO), the 5,099 dengue cases recorded in the province are higher than the 4,000 cases logged in the same period in 2023.

PHO said at least 17 people have died from dengue in the province. However, there is no outbreak of the disease just yet.

Authorities have also yet to discuss the declaration of a state of calamity.

PHO said Malaybalay City has the most cases, with 926, followed by Valencia City, with 508. These cities have two reported deaths each.

With the rising number of dengue cases, the local government of Malaybalay City has conducted fogging operations in areas where dengue cases were reported.

PHO also distributed treated mosquito nets to some schools to fend off dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

“Kung di ka mag-cleanup unya mag-fogging mao ra gihapon mobalik ra gihapon ang lamok kay di man kasulod ang aso sa tubig, so clean up gyud ta,” Bukidnon PHO Dengue Coordinator, Sergio Flores, said.

Health authorities reminded the public to practice the 5S habit against dengue, which includes search and destroy, self-protection, seeking early consultation, supporting fogging, and sustaining hydration. — (James Paolo Yap/GMA Regional TV/August 19, 2024)

Hedcor gives P3.2-M shares to Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

Posted on by cmn

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (July 16, 2024) – Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño receives the municipality’s community shares from Hedcor represented by External Relations Manager for Mindanao David Tacder and Assistant Vice President for External Relations John Michael Rico

The local government plans to allocate the shares to priority projects widening healthcare service access to remote barangays, enhancing support for early childhood education, and improving safety and security through the installation of additional solar street lights.

Broken down, P1.59 million in community shares and P1.63 million in ER 1-94 funds were sourced from the operation of Hedcor’s two hydropower plants in Manolo Fortich, covering the period of July to December 2023.

ER 1-94, a policy of the government, was enacted to ensure that host communities get a reasonable share of the profit from power plants operating in their area. It states that these communities will receive one centavo for every kilowatt hour (P0.01/kWh) generated.

“Thank you very much, Hedcor family, for the significant amount received by the local government. Thank you also for your help to Manolo Fortich. It has been our great dream that a company investing in our town can assist our fellowmen, especially those in need,” said Quiño.

During the 107th Charter Day celebration of Manolo Fortich, the local government recognized Hedcor as one of its top taxpayers for fiscal year 2023, commending its support for the municipality’s programs.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to support the municipality of Manolo Fortich in its efforts to improve the community’s quality of life. We are aligned in our efforts to foster sustainable growth and make a positive difference in the lives of the residents,” said Hedcor President and Chief Operating Officer Rolando Pacquiao. (Manila Bulletin)

DOLE-Bukidnon updates over 300 entrepreneurs on labor laws

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY (May 27, 2024/PIA) – To stay informed about the most recent labor laws, more than 300 small business owners in Malaybalay City participated in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Bukidnon’s TAV (Technical and Advisory Visit) program on May 17

The labor department conducted a series of TAVs to assist small business owners with self-evaluation and compliance with documentary requirements.

These sessions provided valuable insights and guidance, offering a platform for business owners to voice their concerns and engage in face-to-face discussions with DOLE representatives.

Key topics included statutory monetary benefits, types of leave, social welfare, and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programs.

Video presentations explained various aspects of labor laws, such as the General Labor Standards and the TAV Action Plan.

Ma. Elna Seguiro, a senior DOLE-Bukidnon labor officer, emphasized that the TAVs align with DOLE’s new developmental approach outlined in Department Order No. 238. This approach underscores the enforcement of labor standards mandated by the Philippine Labor Code and Republic Act No. 11058.

“The TAVs mark an impactful step towards engaging with a wider range of establishments, from small businesses to larger companies, fostering a culture of compliance, and promoting fair and ethical labor practices,” Seguiro said.

Niña Cosmod, a supervisor at Biaños Pizza Bukidnon, expressed her gratitude for the initiative.

“We thanked DOLE for conducting this TAV orientation. It allowed us to review what is lacking in our establishment that we must comply with and follow,” she said.

Through these initiatives, DOLE-Bukidnon prioritizes workers’ safety and fair treatment by supporting local industries and ensuring their adherence to labor laws, benefiting both workers and businesses.

“The TAVs go beyond educating business owners. It encourages implementing best practices that create a win-win situation for employees and employers, ultimately enhancing Malaybalay’s overall labor landscape,” Seguiro explained. (BGEpan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

Focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis administered in Barangay St. Peter

Posted on by Melchor Madera

MALAYBALAY CITY (May 22, 2024) – The City Health Office (CHO) conducted focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter, a non-schisto-endemic area

This demonstrates a commitment to preventive healthcare and addressing potential health risks before they become significant problems.

By conducting such interventions, they’re not only protecting the health of individuals in Barangay St. Peter but also working towards preventing the spread of schistosomiasis to other areas.

Individuals aged 5 to 65 years old were administered a single dose of Praziquantel (40mg/kg) on a full stomach.

This intervention followed Malacological and Parasitological surveys by the City Health Office, which identified the presence of schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter.

During the malacological survey, the snail Oncomelania quadrasi, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, was found.

In a subsequent parasitological survey, 100 stool samples were examined using the Katokatz method, revealing that less than 1 percent were positive for schistosomiasis and soil- transmitted helminthiasis in the place.

In response, the Department of Health Center for Health and Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) provided Praziquantel, the preferred drug for treating schistosomiasis.

Following health advisories, a mass treatment approach was adopted, providing prophylactic treatment to the entire eligible population, regardless of infection status.

By treating everyone within the eligible age range, the intervention aims to prevent new infections and reduce the overall burden of the disease in the community. (CHO-NADA/melbmadera)