Five cities—Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Puerto Princesa, Baguio, and San Jose—celebrated their graduation from The Challenge Initiative (TCI)-Philippines program on November 28, 2024. The event, held during the TCI Graduation Colloquium, showcased the remarkable achievements of these cities in addressing adolescent health and family planning challenges.

Since 2020, TCI-Philippines, co-managed by the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) and the William H. Gates Sr. Institute for Population and Reproductive Health (Gates Institute), has collaborated with local government units (LGUs), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Commission on Population and Development (CPD). This partnership empowered leaders, health workers, master coaches, and youth advocates to create adolescent-friendly communities and expand access to quality health services.

The graduating cities have seen substantial improvements in key health indicators. Adolescent birth rates (ABR) significantly declined, with San Jose reducing its ABR from 43 (per 1,000 births) in 2020 to an estimated 28 in 2024, Cagayan de Oro from 39 in 2020 to an estimated 30 in 2024, and Dipolog from 50 in 2020 to an estimated 32 in 2024. Puerto Princesa and Baguio, which have maintained an ABR below 30 since 2020, sustained this level through 2024.

Modern contraceptive prevalence rates (mCPR) also showed notable progress. Cagayan de Oro’s mCPR increased from 29% in 2020 to an estimated 36% in 2024, Baguio from 21% in 2020 to an estimated 30% in 2024, and Dipolog from 48% in 2020 to an estimated 57% in 2024. These gains highlight the impact of collaborative, evidence-based interventions in family planning and adolescent health services.

ZFF President and Executive Director Austere Panadero, in his opening address, commended the cities for tailoring their approaches to their specific contexts. “Walang one-size-fits-all. Each city has its own flavor, and the learnings and innovations we’ve seen today should inspire other groups to join in our shared advocacy for better adolescent health outcomes.” Each city then shared how their unique efforts brought about significant improvements:

Dipolog City

“Adolescent health and family planning are more than just health concerns, they are matters of equity, education, and economic opportunity. Inclusive leadership allows us to tackle the interconnected challenges, ensuring that every adolescent, woman, and family are informed, empowered, and supported.” Mayor Darel Dexter Uy and Dr. Benson Panaguiton, Assistant City Health Officer, highlighted their use of TCI’s approach to track progress in ABR and mCPR. By engaging barangay leaders and empowering health workers, they fostered inclusive leadership and improved health outcomes.

Baguio City

“We own the problem and we take accountability from this, and this fuels us to move closer to our stakeholders and attain these indicators and outputs.” Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, City Health Officer, and Dianne Aurora Delizo, Family Planning Coordinator for DOH-Cordillera Administrative Region, shared how Baguio secured 20.5 million pesos in funding for adolescent development and upgraded its health facilities, achieving Level 2 status for several centers. She emphasized the role of family and community in addressing adolescent health.

Cagayan de Oro

“TCI helped us look at the weaknesses in our health system, and tackle health issues with co-ownership with partners built on trust and synergy. With the City Leadership Team being a product of TCI now taking the helm, we are confident that the local government can better confront challenges ahead.” Atty. Roy Hilario Raagas, City Administrator, and Lord Saver Centina, City Youth Development Officer, discussed their success in increasing the number of teen centers and adolescent-friendly health facilities (AFHFs). Through collaboration with barangay officials, Sangguniang Kabataan leaders, and the Department of Education, they built a stronger referral system for adolescents.

Puerto Princesa

“TCI challenged us to improve and make better ways.” Analiza Herrera, Population Management Division Head, introduced their Comprehensive Household Information System, which tracks reproductive health data in real-time, ensuring efficient service delivery.

San Jose City

“Nakita natin ‘yung problema. Nakita na hindi natin kayang mag-isa. Sanga-sanga ito, at kailangan ng tulong ng bawat isa.” Nathaniel Vergara, City Population Officer, and Dr. Rizza Esguerra, City Health Officer, highlighted the power of collective responsibility in addressing health challenges. Leaders and community members worked together to create sustainable solutions for adolescent reproductive health.

ZFF Chairman Ernesto Garilao emphasized the importance of analyzing data to drive impactful interventions, while CPD Regional Director for the National Capital Region Jackylin Robel, representing Usec. Lisa Grace Bersales, CPD Executive Director, highlighted the necessity of youth participation for revolutionary change. Kate Graham from the Gates Institute lauded TCI’s community-driven approach for fostering local ownership and amplifying youth voices. 

All five cities were awarded the Global Self-Reliant City designation. This recognition celebrates their outstanding efforts in creating sustainable, locally-driven solutions to adolescent health and family planning challenges. By achieving this milestone, these cities are now considered models of self-sufficiency and innovation, paving the way for other localities to follow. 

Glenn Bede Benablo, TCI-Philippines Chief of Party, announced that TCI will support the remaining 19 cities which are part of the program next year. TCI will continue documenting its successes, expanding services, and integrating efforts to other maternal, newborn and child health areas, such as immunization, nutrition, and mental health.

Watch the event livestream here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18CHSD9CfZ/ 

Aklan has reached a turning point in its journey to improve healthcare. On November 27, 2024, the Provincial Leadership and Governance Program Cycle 4 (PLGP 4) of the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) wrapped up with a celebration at Seda Atria Hotel in Iloilo City.

The event was a chance to look back on how the province has strengthened its healthcare system, making it more accessible and better for everyone. Attendees included representatives from the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), the Provincial Health Office (PHO), Provincial Department of Health (DOH) Office, together with DOH-Western Visayas Regional Director Dr. Adriano Suba-an, and Aklan Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores.

Governor Miraflores spoke about the importance of working together. He shared how the province’s success was built on partnerships—with government agencies, organizations, and even the most vulnerable communities. He encouraged everyone to keep using evidence-based approaches and bridging leadership to ensure that progress includes everyone.

Dr. Leo Ismael of the PHO and Provincial Universal Health Care (UHC) Coordinator J-Lorenz Dionisio presented key achievements under PLGP 4. These included the growth of Aklan’s local health system and the training of health leaders. Over three years, the program provided technical sessions and hands-on activities that helped participants understand and improve the province’s UHC  implementation. Thanks to these efforts, Aklan is now one of only four Health Care Provider Networks (HCPN) in the Philippines.

Primary care indicators also saw impressive improvements. In 2023, Aklan had only one licensed health facility, but by 2024, this number grew to 18. The number of individuals registered in primary care facilities grew by 56%, from 178,615 in 2023 to 277,966 in 2024.

Dr. Suba-an highlighted areas where Aklan can further strengthen its healthcare governance, such as digital systems and transparent funding. He praised the leadership and determination of the PHO and the provincial government, saying their work sets an example for other provinces.

The celebration ended with the awarding of certificates to individuals and organizations who played a role in Aklan’s healthcare transformation. It was a powerful reminder of how collaboration can lead to lasting change and a healthier, more resilient future for Aklan.

On November 27, 2024, 11 municipal health teams from the Cordillera region graduated from the Bayang Malusog Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP). The event, held in Baguio City, was a collaboration between the Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR), Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), and the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF).

DOH-CAR Regional Director Dr. Ferdinand Benbenen stressed the moral responsibility behind Universal Health Care (UHC), saying, “Every life is valuable. Tunggal biag ket napateg. And every Filipino deserves quality healthcare. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that this promise becomes a reality, and no one regardless of their background or circumstances is left without the care they need.”

The event brought together health leaders from 11 municipalities across the Cordillera region. These include Lagayan in Abra; Atok, Bokod, Buguias, and Mankayan in Benguet; Aguinaldo, Asipulo, and Hingyon in Ifugao; Balbalan in Kalinga; and Bontoc and Sagada in Mt. Province. Through MLDP, these municipalities developed tailored health strategies to address their unique challenges while working toward UHC.

Abra

Mayor Edmark Crisologo of Lagayan highlighted the importance of shared responsibility in health governance, stressing that health systems require the involvement of all sectors. Lilibeth Martin of the Provincial DOH Office reminded leaders of their critical role in governance, saying, “What’s the use of governance when the people you govern are sick?” She urged them to be guiding lights in their communities.

Benguet

Benguet mayors shared their strategies for achieving UHC. Mayor Franklin Smith of Atok, Mayor Thomas Jr. Wales of Bokod, Mayor Ruben Tinda-an of Buguias, and Mayor Dario Banario of Mankayan emphasized partnerships, policy advocacy, and placing families at the heart of health systems. PHO Dr. Meliarazon Dulay encouraged the mayors to sustain their progress, benchmark their efforts, and inspire other leaders to join programs like MLDP to build a healthier Benguet.

Ifugao

Mayors from Ifugao shared their experiences in tackling health challenges. Mayor Gaspar Jr. Chilagan of Aguinaldo reflected on addressing vaccine hesitancy through collaboration and communication. Mayor Archie Lee Quindo of Asipulo stressed the importance of shared vision and leadership in driving health system improvements. Mayor Florencio Nalula of Hingyon highlighted their aim of achieving low morbidity across illnesses. PHO Dr. Priscilla Pagada encouraged all mayors to work together toward a unified, province-wide health system under Ifugao’s vision for a happy and healthy community.

Kalinga

Mayor Almar Malannag of Balbalan focused on the whole-of-society approach to tackling health issues like malnutrition. He emphasized understanding the perspectives of communities and working collectively to accelerate UHC. PHO Dr. Edward Tandingan praised the mayor’s dedication, reminding him and everyone that sharing knowledge and resources will help uplift other municipalities in the province.

Mt. Province

Mt. Province mayors underscored collaboration as a key driver of health progress. Mayor Jerome Jr. Tudlong of Bontoc spoke about the importance of active participation from families and building a strong network to support UHC. Mayor Felecito Dula of Sagada committed to ensuring no one in his community is left behind, pledging to remove barriers to healthcare access. PHO Dr. Carolyn Yawan emphasized the need for collective effort to achieve better health outcomes for the province.

The Bayang Malusog MLDP graduates now carry the responsibility of transforming their health systems and improving the lives of their constituents. Their commitment to collaboration, governance, and public service is a step closer to achieving UHC in the Cordilleras. As CCDC President Dr. Sherry Junette Tagle said, “The challenges we face are evolving, and addressing them will require our collective effort.”

Rural Health Unit (RHU) staff, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) in Sumisip, Basilan gathered on November 13, 2024, to assess progress in addressing child malnutrition. The third day of the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) Family Stunting Reduction (FaStR) Monitoring Series focused on updates and reflections from Barangay Tumahubong and Barangay Mangal. 

ZFF’s FaStR program empowers families to adopt health and nutrition practices critical for reducing stunting among children in the First 1,000 Days (F1KD). Through education, tools, and regular monitoring, FaStR equips families to make sustainable changes that improve overall well-being. 

Participants shared experiences and strategies to improve the program’s reach. Discussions centered on the gains made through the FaStR Program, key challenges, and plans to expand its coverage.

Dr. Ali de Guzman, Sumisip’s Rural Health Physician, praised the group’s efforts, describing their work as both a privilege and a responsibility. “Being a pilot site is an honor, but it also challenges us to set an example in improving child nutrition in Sumisip,” she said.

A key highlight of the meeting was the increase in Operation Timbang (OPT) coverage in the two barangays. By closely monitoring malnourished children, local implementers have been able to provide targeted interventions to address nutritional gaps.

Participants reviewed health and nutrition data, identifying ways to strengthen services. Plans included engaging barangay leaders in future reviews and exploring a Barangay Leadership Program to build local capacity in managing nutrition initiatives.

The session highlighted the dedication of health workers and volunteers in driving the program forward. As they look ahead, their shared goal remains clear: to sustain community-driven solutions for better health and nutrition in Sumisip.

In a joint effort to advance health governance and strengthen Universal Health Care (UHC) systems in the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH)-Ilocos Regional Office, the University of the Philippines-College of Public Health (UP-CPH), and the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) celebrated the completion of the Bayang Malusog Provincial Leadership Development Program (PLDP) in a regional colloquium held in Heritage Hotel, Manila. The event brought together leaders and health officers from the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan to share insights and accomplishments, marking a milestone in their UHC journey.

The colloquium gathered Governors Jeremias Singson of Ilocos Sur and Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David of La Union, along with Provincial Health Officers Dr. Cielo Almoite of Pangasinan and Dr. Rickson Balalio of Ilocos Norte, each presenting the strides their provinces have made toward more inclusive, accessible healthcare.

Reflections on a Shared Vision for Health

Dr. Cielo Almoite, Pangasinan Provincial Health Officer, highlighted two main takeaways from Pangasinan’s UHC journey: the importance of a shared vision and the value of trust and transparency. “By nurturing a shared vision, bridging leaders can create a powerful force for positive change, ensuring that everyone is working together towards a healthier future for all,” Dr. Almoite said. She also emphasized the impact of building trust, stating, “Increased transparency leads to greater trust and buy-in, and ultimately more satisfied stakeholders.”

Similarly, Ilocos Norte’s Dr. Rickson Balalio reflected on the value of resilience, continuous learning, and teamwork. “Setbacks are inevitable, but we’ve learned to see each challenge as a stepping stone and an opportunity to refine our strategies. Every struggle has been an opportunity for growth, pushing us to enhance our capabilities and improve service delivery,” he shared, underscoring the essential role of collaboration in navigating UHC challenges.

Leaders Committed to Community-Centered Health

For Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson of Ilocos Sur, teamwork and adaptability are vital for achieving UHC goals. “Working as a team does not rely solely on the leader. Recognizing each team member’s expertise creates synergy, accountability, and empowerment. We aim to become responsible ancestors to the Bayang Malusog we envision,” he said.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Raffy” Ortega-David of La Union expressed pride in her province’s progress, having achieved high levels of UHC implementation. “UHC is not a race. We hope that our numbers inspire our neighboring provinces. We need empathy; our people should feel the government’s care at the barangay level,” she noted.

A Shared Commitment to Health for All

The colloquium highlighted the collaborative efforts across the four provinces, emphasizing that the journey towards UHC is a collective responsibility. The panel discussions focused on overcoming challenges in governance, integrating public and private health services, and sustaining the gains made through the program.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the dedication of local leaders, health officers, and partners like ZFF, UP-CPH, and DOH-Ilocos would continue to drive positive changes in the region’s health systems. Each province left with a renewed commitment to make healthcare accessible and equitable for every Filipino in Ilocos.

On October 30-31, 2024, Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) and Barangay Health Workers (BHW) gathered in Gandara, Samar, for a refresher training and pre-implementation session on Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF)’s Family Stunting Reduction (FaStR) Program. Participants from the three pilot barangays—Adela Heights, Minda, and Burabud II—learned practical skills and strategies for delivering the program’s modules, equipping them to bring the FaStR Program to their communities.

The first day included a hands-on module delivery to families in Barangay Adela Heights. This practice session helped participants apply what they learned with real families, supported by municipal health workers and their peers. Afterward, a feedback session allowed the team to share their experiences, recognizing both successes and areas needing improvement.

The second day focused on planning and setting up concrete next steps for implementing the FaStR Program. The group emphasized continuous training for BNSs and BHWs to prepare for a broader rollout across Gandara’s 69 barangays. Key steps discussed included integrating FaStR activities into each barangay’s nutrition action plan and engaging barangay leaders for added support.

With the highest stunting rate among Samar’s 26 local government units, Gandara’s need for an effective stunting reduction program is urgent. The FaStR Program aims to address this by promoting healthy nutrition and growth for young children. Support for Gandara’s FaStR initiative comes from the Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) and the National Nutrition Council in Region 8, with technical assistance from the Zuellig Family Foundation.

Region 8’s broader rollout plan also includes the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP), which will cover 70 municipalities. By coordinating FaStR’s goals with the PMNP, Region 8 hopes to drive major improvements in health and nutrition for families across Samar.

From September 25 to 27, 2024, municipal leaders from Samar gathered at the Ramada Hotel in Binondo, Manila, for the Municipal Expanded Youth Leadership and Governance Program (MEYLGP) Module 2. This three-day training aimed at addressing adolescent pregnancy through stronger governance and collaboration among local officials.

The MEYLGP is designed to enhance the capacity of local leaders over a 24-month period, providing them with two training modules and practical applications. This initiative supports local government units (LGUs) in strengthening adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health (AYSRH) systems by applying multi-level interventions. 

During the event’s opening, Roland Paul Junio from UNFPA delivered remarks that stressed the importance of bridging national policies with on-the-ground implementation. He encouraged municipal leaders to prioritize interventions that directly benefit adolescents in their communities, highlighting the pressing need for local actions that align with broader policy goals.

Municipal Progress Reports: Calbayog and Catbalogan Cities

One of the key moments during the training was the presentation of progress reports from mayors. Mayor Raymond Uy of Calbayog shared significant results, noting a reduction in the adolescent birth rate from 26% in 2022 to 11% in 2023. His leadership established a Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) aimed at improving youth services. However, Mayor Uy acknowledged challenges, including limited access to modern contraceptives and difficulties in tracking pregnancies due to disruptions caused by barangay elections. He emphasized the importance of improving data analysis and strengthening guiding coalitions to address these gaps.

Similarly, Mayor Dexter Uy of Catbalogan shared his city’s successes in launching adolescent-friendly health initiatives and conducting medical missions. He reported that two barangays are now set to receive Level 1 Adolescent-Friendly Health Facility accreditation, and a Key Assistance for Developing Adolescents (KADA) network had been established to strengthen services for youth. Mayor Uy underscored the city’s commitment to continue these efforts, calling for sustained action to reduce adolescent pregnancies and improve health outcomes.

Action Planning for Addressing Challenges in Adolescent Health

The core of Module 2 focused on creating actionable plans to address ongoing challenges in adolescent health. The municipal leaders engaged in discussions, formulating specific and measurable actions tailored to the needs of their localities. In Basay, for example, leaders planned to establish a strong guiding coalition with clearly defined roles and responsibilities, while also improving data collection and conducting community walks to raise awareness of AYSRH programs. They also aimed to increase adolescent access to services and use social media to campaign against selling alcohol to minors.

In Catbalogan, leaders committed to revitalizing their guiding coalition and passing a KADA Ordinance at the barangay level, aiming to engage all 57 barangays in the process. They also planned to integrate health information systems through Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), ensuring that at least one primary health care facility would meet adolescent-friendly standards. A series of community forums would also be held to promote AYSRH and monitor the effectiveness of these outreach programs.

In Paranas, the action plan focused on collaborating with the Department of Education (DepEd) to conduct school-based AYSRH symposiums. Local leaders also aimed to train youth peer educators and renovate their teen center to meet the necessary standards for adolescent-friendly facility accreditation. Meanwhile, Villareal municipal leaders worked on formalizing their guiding coalition team and securing a location for a teen hub, targeting two high schools for ASRH initiatives.

Calbayog City’s leaders, meanwhile, prioritized the effective use of funds already allocated to the City Health Office and planned to establish better data collection mechanisms to track adolescent health trends. They also outlined plans for community workshops to promote AYSRH, starting with pilot barangays before expanding the initiative citywide.

The MEYLGP Module 2 provided a platform not only to equip municipal leaders with the tools they needed but also to foster collaboration among them. Armed with their action plans and backed by ongoing mentorship, they aim to create healthier, more supportive environments for adolescents in Samar and Southern Leyte.

The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) held a two-day event at Bayview Hotel Manila on September 19-20, 2024, to discuss how integrated health information systems (iHIS) can help achieve Universal Health Care (UHC). As part of ZFF’s Bayang Malusog Community of Practice, this technical session gathered Provincial Health Officers, Department of Health (DOH) representatives and UHC Coordinators from Regions 1, 6, 8, Cordillera Administrative Region and Caraga Region to share insights and work together to address the challenges of implementing iHIS across the country.

The event opened with a welcome from Dr. Anthony Faraon, ZFF’s Deputy Executive Director, who urged participants to “make IT happen” by focusing on data and technology to streamline healthcare services. Throughout the event, discussions focused on the need for interoperable HIS—systems that can communicate across hospitals, rural health units (RHUs), and government agencies like the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth. Below are some key insights from the event.

1. Overcoming barriers to interoperable systems. Participants shared similar frustrations about non-interoperable systems, inconsistent internet access, and outdated or insufficient IT infrastructure. These barriers make it difficult for healthcare providers to access patient data in real-time, impacting the efficiency and responsiveness of health services. Several participants agreed that stronger investments in IT infrastructure and training are needed to enable seamless data sharing.

2. Addressing the IT capacity gap. One of the main challenges discussed was the lack of trained IT personnel at the local health unit level. Many RHUs still have staff members who are not computer literate, and there are few dedicated IT personnel to manage HIS. This skills gap limits the ability of local health facilities to effectively use electronic medical records (eMR) and other health data tools. 

3. The role of leadership and governance. Participants stressed that local chief executives (LCEs) and health leaders must take an active role in prioritizing iHIS. Leadership can make a significant difference in securing funding for IT infrastructure, ensuring proper implementation of systems, and aligning local health initiatives with national policies. Provinces with strong leadership and governance support showed better progress in using iHIS, as leaders invested in technology and human resources to support UHC efforts.

4. Tackling the procurement challenge. Slow and cumbersome procurement processes emerged as a major obstacle in improving HIS. Many regions face delays in acquiring essential equipment like computers, servers, and internet connectivity tools. The lengthy process for purchasing IT infrastructure often results in outdated or insufficient equipment, which hinders the smooth implementation of eMR systems. Participants suggested streamlining procurement processes and providing faster access to funding for IT-related needs as immediate solutions to these bottlenecks.

5. Unified data systems: a work in progress. While DOH is working towards creating an iHIS, progress has been slow due to delays caused by the pandemic. Ms. Cherrie Esteban, DOH-Knowledge Management Information and Technology Services (KMITS) Division Chief, outlined efforts to consolidate various disease registries and create a single system that integrates data across different healthcare levels. However, this remains a work in progress, and many local health units continue to use separate platforms, complicating data management and decision-making.

6. Bridging health financing and data needs. One insight shared was the need to align health data with financial systems like PhilHealth. Many participants raised concerns about how health services are financed, noting that inconsistent data reporting affects the ability of local government units (LGUs) to claim PhilHealth reimbursements and secure funding for health programs. Aligning health data systems with financing mechanisms can help improve healthcare delivery by ensuring that funds are allocated where they are most needed.

The event concluded with an action planning session where the participants outlined specific steps to improve their respective HIS. Common priorities included upgrading IT infrastructure, providing training for health workers, and securing support from both local governments and national agencies like DOH and PhilHealth. Participants also stressed the need for continued collaboration across regions, sharing best practices and lessons learned as they work towards achieving UHC. While challenges remain, the collective effort to improve HIS will be key to accelerating the realization of UHC for all Filipinos.

On September 17, 2024, Provincial Governors from the Cagayan Valley region (Region 2) came together at Citadines Bay Manila, Pasay City, for the Bayang Malusog Provincial Leadership Development Program’s (PLDP) first Executive Session for Governors. The event, hosted by the Department of Health (DOH)-Cagayan Valley, as part of Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF)’s Bayang Malusog Program, focused on aligning health visions towards the provinces’ accelerated implementation of the Universal Health Care Law. 

Governors Hon. Marilou Cayco of Batanes, Hon. Manuel Mamba of Cagayan, Hon. Jose Gambito of Nueva Vizcaya, their respective health teams, and representatives of Isabela participated in the 1-day activity.

The day began with a message from Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, DOH-Cagayan Valley Regional Director. She emphasized the importance of leadership in health governance. Dr. Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire, DOH Undersecretary, followed with a call to action. She discussed the challenges in UHC implementation, particularly in regions with difficult access to healthcare due to geography and lack of resources. “We must aspire for a future where every family can trust that healthcare is not a privilege, but a right,” she said, urging leaders to take a holistic approach in solving health issues.

Bayang Malusog PLDP: Setting the Stage. Dr. Jenilyn Ann V. Dabu, Program manager at ZFF, presented an overview of the Bayang Malusog PLDP. She explained that the program, running for one year, aims to help provincial leaders evaluate their health systems and accelerate UHC implementation. The training includes mentoring, technical assistance, and system redesign efforts, with a target of 100% organizational health system maturity and 50% functional maturity by the end of the program. “We hope these reforms will lead to better health outcomes,” Dr. Dabu said, encouraging the governors to look at health services all the way down to the barangay level.

Cagayan Valley’s UHC Journey. Mr. Janriel A. Lavadia, UHC Coordinator for Cagayan Valley, shared the region’s progress toward achieving UHC. He reported that all provinces in Region 2 are on the official list of UHC integration sites, ensuring no province is left behind. “Malayo pa pero malayo na ang narating ng Cagayan Valley,” he remarked. Despite challenges, the region has made headway in establishing management support units and expanding provincial health boards. “It’s important to celebrate small wins together,” Lavadia added.

Lessons from La Union. Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David of La Union shared her Deep Dive, a guided community immersion, as part of ZFF’s Bayang Malusog PLDP. They visited Barangay Bayabas of the Municipality of San Gabriel in La Union, and encountered the tragic story of a mother who died from giving birth in San Fernando City, an hour away from her town.  “Reflecting on my journey, it was a harsh revelation that a barangay was deprived of access to adequate healthcare,” Governor Ortega-David said, expressing her deep sense of responsibility to create a better, more responsive health system for her province. 

PhilHealth and UHC Financing. PhilHealth representatives, Walter Bacareza and Clementine Bautista, provided updates on UHC financing, emphasizing that under UHC, all Filipinos are covered. PhilHealth is working on contracting Health Care Provider Networks (HCPN) to deliver integrated services, ensuring that even remote areas have access to healthcare. They also explained the benefits of the HCPN, which includes enhanced outpatient services and easier access to medications, backed by a sustainable financing system through the Special Health Fund (SHF).

Pangasinan’s Commitment to UHC. Dr. Anna Maria Teresa De Guzman, Provincial Health Officer of Pangasinan, shared her province’s efforts in implementing UHC. With over 1,300 barangays, Pangasinan has enacted ordinances to institutionalize province-wide health systems and formalize their SHF. She shared the development of their UHC SHF Management Procedure Manual, which details the protocols in accessing the SHF.  She also  emphasized the importance of monitoring implementation to meet UHC goals, ensuring that even the most remote communities benefit from the health reforms. 

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The session ended with a look ahead to the next module of the Bayang Malusog PLDP. By then, the governors will have implemented their quick wins and begun taking steps toward improving health systems in their provinces, particularly for the poor and underserved. This event marked the first step in the journey toward making health care in Cagayan Valley more equitable, accessible, and truly universal.