The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), through its Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program (BMLGP), is helping strengthen primary health care (PHC) systems in Kapangan and Kibungan in Benguet and Baguio City to support the country’s Universal Health Care (UHC) goals.

Guided by the UHC Act’s vision of accessible, equitable, and people-centered health services, the Bayang Malusog Program focuses on improving local leadership and governance so that government units can effectively manage integrated primary care networks. To support this, ZFF provided partnership grants to the City Camp and Irisan District Health Centers in Baguio City, and the Rural Health Units of Kapangan and Kibungan in Benguet.

Related articles:

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• Baguio City Advance Universal Health Plans
• Moving Forward with Health Reforms in Benguet

The grants help frontline health workers deliver better care through:

• Home visit kits for community outreach;
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs);
• Essential primary health care equipment; and
• Health Information System (HIS) support.

These tools enable continuous, quality care at the community level.

The turnover ceremony on January 22, 2025, marked a shared commitment to making primary care facilities strong and functional. Baguio City officials present were Dr. Ma. Lourdes Pakoy, Assistant City Health Officer; Dr. Nelson Hora, City Camp District Health Center Medical Officer; and Dr. Vanessa Fagcangan, Irisan District Health Center Medical Officer. From Benguet, Dr. Meliarazon Dulay and Dr. Jocelyn Legaspi, Provincial Health Officers, and Ms. Rubelyn Tomas, Senior Health Program Officer, attended, along with Dr. Joy Fermin, Municipal Health Officer of Kapangan. Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region officials Dr. Janice Bugtong and Dr. Mercedes Calpito also joined.

Through the Bayang Malusog Program, ZFF continues to show that strong leadership, well-supported health workers, and integrated primary care systems form the foundation of UHC—ensuring every Filipino family can access quality, responsive, and people-centered health services.

Banner photo: Provincial Health Office of Benguet

Authors: Joan Kidatan, ZFF BMLGP Associate for Baguio City

Health leaders from Aklan and Baguio City joined a two-day strategic planning workshop on November 13–24, 2025, under Zuellig Family Foundation’s Bayang Malusog Community of Practice. 

The session introduced an outcomes-based and data-driven approach to improving health systems, with hypertension prevention and control as the main example. This method supports the goals of Universal Health Care (UHC) by showing how program design, resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement can directly contribute to better health outcomes.

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The workshop came at an important time. With the ongoing strategic pause in the Health Care Provider Network implementation for demonstration sites, local government units (LGUs) now have space to revisit their plans and budgets. This pause allows them to shift their focus from system integration to the results they want to achieve.

Dr. Carlo Panelo, healthcare economics expert and Professor at the University of the Philippines Manila College of Medicine, reminded participants that, even with the pause, LGUs must stay proactive. He encouraged them to think about health financing with outcomes in mind and to use the hypertension control program as a way to bring partners together and drive improvements in service delivery.

Participants engaged in hands-on exercises to review program performance, set achievable targets, define essential service packages, and estimate the resources needed. They also identified possible financing sources, drafted financial plans, and outlined governance and monitoring arrangements. 

Both Aklan and Baguio recognized the importance of having complete, reliable data and saw how better data management can support structured planning across different health programs. They also acknowledged common challenges such as limited capacity, incomplete information, and resistance to new planning methods. Still, both areas committed to refining their plans and becoming more proactive so that their health indicators clearly reflect the progress they aim to achieve.

Hypertension served as the workshop’s main health indicator because it remains a major cause of illness and death in the Philippines, especially due to heart disease and stroke. Chronic diseases like hypertension require strong systems that can support long-term care, demand more resources, and affect all levels of service and stages of life. For the participants, hypertension became a practical way to understand how strategic planning can push systems forward.

Aklan appreciated how the process can be applied to other health programs, especially as new program managers come onboard. Their financial analysis even showed a surplus that could support hypertension interventions. “We were reminded how to do planning based on factual data and in a systematic way. Despite workload and the tendency to ‘copy-paste,’ being here allowed us to focus on proper planning,” said Dr. Daystar Sedillo, Medical Officer IV of Aklan.

Baguio valued the clarity and structure of the approach and noted the need to strengthen data gathering and management. “We need to fine-tune the planning process to target root causes and outcomes,” shared Rommel de Guzman, Health Education and Promotions Officer II of Baguio. The city also saw how the Local Health Systems Maturity Level connects with actual implementation and outputs.

For both LGUs, the pause is not a setback but a chance to prepare. Once funds start flowing again, they want to be ready—capable of managing resources well and confident that their plans will lead to healthier communities.

Authors: Shelley Medina, ZFF Bayang Malusog Community of Practice Associate; Krizzia Esperanza, ZFF Corporate Communications Associate

The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), together with the Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) and the City Government of Baguio, hosted a two-day City Health System Strengthening Program (CHSSP) workshop on November 20–21, 2025 at Mines View Park Hotel, Baguio City. The activity, part of the Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program, brought the Baguio Local Health Board and health leaders from the City Camp and Irisan District Health Centers into one space to reflect on the city’s health challenges and opportunities.

Baguio’s Health Situation: Key Points

The workshop began with a grounding on Baguio’s 2024 health situation—a clear picture of both progress and continuing gaps. The leading causes of illness (acute respiratory infections, dental cavities, and hypertension) and the main causes of death (vascular diseases, cancer, and heart disease) showed the city’s dual burden of infectious and lifestyle-related conditions.

Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, City Health Officer, added other important concerns. Maternal deaths remain high; antenatal care and full immunization percentages are still below national targets; and procurement delays have limited the availability of medicines for people with hypertension and diabetes. Partnerships—such as Abbott’s support for viral load testing—continue to enhance HIV services, but mental health cases increased sharply from 241 in 2023 to 525 in 2024, pointing to urgent psychosocial needs.

The city also faces staffing gaps, with 11 more health workers needed across facilities. Accreditation efforts under the Yaman at Kalusugan Para sa Pamilyang Pilipino (YAKAP) Program continue, supported by better population registration. The Mines View Health Center is preparing for accreditation by the end of the year.

Workshop Learning Sessions

Given this context, participants joined sessions on Universal Health Care (UHC), PhilHealth benefits, systems thinking, visioning, and ZFF’s Bridging Leadership Framework. Resource persons from DOH-CAR, PhilHealth, the Baguio Health Services Office (HSO), and ZFF guided the discussions, which helped deepen appreciation for shared leadership and collective action.

Throughout the workshop, health leaders shared reflections that captured the spirit of the program.

“Change does not happen overnight, but we can always start with our own,” said Dr. Vanessa Fagcangan of the Irisan District Health Center.

Dr. Ma. Lourdes Pakoy of the HSO spoke about the need to widen their perspective: “Ang lawak pala ng kailangan naming punan. Even with UHC, the problem of strengthening primary care facilities is still the same today. We really need to step up and unite.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Nelson Hora of the City Camp District Health Center emphasized adaptability in a changing health landscape: “We are in a changing world… you always have to grow your capital. Invest in your expertise. Kung ano ang meron ka, pagyamanin mo para madali mong i-offer.”

The workshop closed with a renewed sense of co-ownership—the third and last phase of ZFF’s Bridging Leadership Framework—between the Baguio Health Services Office and the Local Health Board. Both teams committed to addressing health inequities through coordinated leadership and stronger engagement with communities and partners.

ZFF and its partners continue to nurture health leaders who demonstrate technical skill, grounded leadership, and a shared commitment to strengthen Baguio’s health system—one collaborative step at a time.

Author: Joan Kidatan, ZFF Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program Associate

The Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-Cordillera) honored the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) with the Gawad Kalusugan Award for its contribution to advancing Universal Health Care (UHC) in the region. The recognition took place during the Am-among for Health and Gawad Kalusugan on October 28–29, 2025, in Baguio City.

DOH-CAR recognized ZFF for its partnership in implementing the Bayang Malusog Leadership and Development Program (BMLDP), a joint initiative that builds the capacity of local leaders to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes. The Bayang Malusog program continues to make an impact in its Community of Practice member areas, including Apayao, Mountain Province, Kalinga, Ifugao, and current Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program sites Benguet and Baguio City, where empowered leaders sustain health reforms and deliver better services for their communities.

In her message, DOH-Cordillera Regional Director Amelita Pangilinan commended the efforts of partners like ZFF in empowering local government units (LGUs), saying, “The LGU is the lifeline of reform.” She encouraged continued collaboration to strengthen primary health care, improve facilities, and invest in the health workforce.

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DOH Undersecretary Glenn Mathew Baggao urged participants to view UHC “not merely as a law, but as a commitment to collective effort for better health access.” He added that a ‘Healthier Cordillera’ requires building an inclusive, accessible, and resilient health system.

Through the Gawad Kalusugan, DOH-Cordillera also recognized outstanding LGUs, national agencies, civil society organizations, and private partners who help advance UHC in the region.

The recognition affirms ZFF’s commitment to work with DOH and LGUs in strengthening leadership and governance for health toward the shared goal of ensuring equitable and quality health care for every Filipino.

Main photo from: DOH-Cordillera

Author: Joan Kidatan, ZFF Local Health Systems Provincial Associate for Baguio City

The City Health Services Office of Baguio, led by Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, is taking meaningful steps to strengthen and make health care more inclusive for the city. On September 24–25, 2025, 23 medical officers and staff completed Module 1 of the Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program (BMLGP).

BMLGP, a partnership between the City of Baguio and the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), aims to build the knowledge, skills, and values of local health leaders so they can champion Universal Health Care (UHC) and address long-standing gaps in access to quality services.

During the two-day training, participants reflected on the health inequities in Baguio and studied the Bridging Leadership Framework, which highlights ownership, co-ownership, and co-creation in solving complex health challenges. They also learned practical approaches such as systems thinking, multi-sector collaboration, building and sustaining trust, and dialogue-based planning—tools essential for effective health leadership and governance.

Related article:

• Baguio City Advance Universal Health Plans

Moving forward, the city has identified key activities to strengthen collaboration in support of its Health Care Provider Network (HCPN), including:

• Stakeholder mapping and analysis to better understand the roles and needs of different partners;
• Training workshops to build the capacity of local health teams;
• Technical working group meetings to align efforts and monitor progress; and
• Crafting of a special health fund manual to guide resource use and sustainability.

These activities are aligned with the city’s UHC Roadmap, advancing its vision of becoming a “livable, inclusive, and creative city.”

In her closing remarks, Dr. Catherine Chung, Director of the Local Health Systems of ZFF, recognized the participants’ active involvement and highlighted the value of shared effort. “In the complexity of public health and UHC, no one person holds the answer, but together as Bridging Leaders, we create solutions,” she said.

For Dr. Brillantes and her team, more than just a training, the program is a call to action. By practicing shared leadership, they are reaffirming their commitment to transform health in Baguio with compassion, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring a healthier future for every resident.

Authors: Joan Kidatan, ZFF LHS Provincial Associate for Baguio City; Krizzia Esperanza, ZFF Corporate Communications Associate

Santa Rosa, Laguna — The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF)’s Bayang Malusog Community of Practice (CoP) held a face-to-face learning visit on September 4, 2025, at Healthway QualiMed Hospital, where Chief Operating Officer Atty. Nirmala Barbara Vanguardia welcomed members and introduced the hospital’s approach to providing quality health care.

Participants representing 11 CoP member areas (Aklan, Apayao, Benguet, Eastern Samar, Ifugao, Kalinga, La Union, Mountain Province, Nueva Vizcaya, Occidental Mindoro, and Baguio City) took part in the session to learn how a private health institution manages its systems and sustains its operations. The visit gave participants an opportunity to compare experiences and see how good practices in hospital and primary care management could inspire solutions in local government health systems. 

Hospital leaders presented the facility’s background, expansion plans, and organizational structure. They emphasized that clarifying roles and responsibilities helps teams work effectively and prevents overlaps. Members found this lesson particularly relevant as many provinces are still refining their own organizational arrangements for Universal Health Care (UHC) implementation.

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The hospital also showcased its referral network under the Healthway Medical Network, explaining how it links patients to appropriate care, supports information flow, and ensures continuity of services. CoP members noted that strengthening referral systems remains a common challenge in local settings, making this example valuable. The discussion on financial management further gave members insights on how sound systems can sustain service delivery and improve efficiency.

A guided tour of the hospital allowed participants to observe operations firsthand, from equipment standards to human resource practices. The interactive exchange encouraged members to raise questions on how these systems could be adapted in their provinces, especially in contexts where resources are limited.

In the plenary session, members reflected on the visit and shared how they plan to apply their learnings. Some said the clear structure and systematic networking approach of Healthway could serve as models for strengthening their own provincial health systems. Others expressed that seeing the hospital’s practices in action made the lessons more concrete and easier to adapt.

Dr. Catherine Chung, Local Health Systems Director at ZFF, closed the activity with words of encouragement, reminding the members that peer learning and exposure to different models help build stronger foundations for UHC. She urged participants to translate their insights into action, carrying forward the motivation from the visit into their communities.

Baguio City is moving closer to making Universal Health Care (UHC) a reality. 

Dr. Catherine Chung, Local Health Systems Director at Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), noted that the city has nearly completed the accreditation of all its district health centers under PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP). Only two centers remain, while the city is also improving its electronic medical records and preparing to operationalize contracts with three private hospitals. These steps, she said, put Baguio in a strong position to shift toward a mixed health provider network that uses both public and private facilities.

These insights came during the Executive Session for Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong on August 12, 2025, organized by ZFF through its Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program. 

City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes laid out Baguio’s roadmap to UHC. PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado shared updates on YAKAP and advised the city to prepare solid contracting rules, clear fund-sharing arrangements, and even explore public-private partnership models. Austere Panadero, ZFF President and Executive Director, reminded the group of the urgency of their shared task, stressing: “We need to reach more, serve more. We need to prepare the system.” The Department of Health (DOH)-CAR also committed its full support.

Dr. Chung underscored that while Baguio is ahead, the transition will not be easy. Building a mixed-provider network demands strong governance, especially in handling contracts and finances. There is a need for local accountability systems to ensure that health funds are used properly and transparently. At the same time, she affirmed that Baguio has the right building blocks—committed leadership, technical support from PhilHealth and DOH, and active collaboration with partners.

With these efforts, Baguio City is showing that local governments can lead the way in building a health system that truly works for every resident.

“We commit again that we will continue prioritizing health. Tuloy-tuloy tayo dito.” – Hon. Melchor Diclas, Benguet Governor

In local governments, health often competes with other urgent needs. For health officers, one big question remains: How can we make sure that political leaders keep prioritizing health—now and in the future? For the Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Benguet, the answer lies in co-creation of solutions and pathways.

A Shared Journey for Health

Benguet, led by Governor Melchor Diclas and Dr. Meliarazon Dulay, is part of the Bayang Malusog Leadership and Governance Program (BMLGP). The program is supported by the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) and the Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR).

Now in its second cycle, the PHO has gone beyond workshops. They have built a strong shared vision, aligned their values, and created a clear plan for the next three years. They call it the Healthier Benguet Roadmap.

In one key session, ZFF facilitated a reflective activity based on ikigai—a Japanese concept about purpose. It helped the Benguet health team reconnect with why they chose public health in the first place. “What I love about being in public health service is knowing people, their story, and being able to help them,” said one participant.

Governor Diclas: Leading with Purpose

On July 21, 2025, the Benguet health team presented the roadmap to Governor Diclas. He responded with clear and strong support. 

He stressed the need for alignment with Benguet’s mayors. “Kung iba-iba ang priorities natin, hindi tayo makakapagtulong-tulungan,” he said, “Let us convince everyone to prioritize health.” He also suggested enrolling all newly elected mayors, and those who missed the first round, in the Bayong Malusog Municipal Leadership and Development Program.

Now on his third term, Governor Diclas’ commitment turns the roadmap into a legacy plan, one that could shape health governance in Benguet for years to come.

Related articles:

• Benguet Charts Path to Stronger Health Governance
• Building a Healthier Benguet: Integrating Health Information, Financing, and Service Delivery to Achieving Universal Health Care

The Healthier Benguet Roadmap

The roadmap is both bold and practical. More than just a static plan, the roadmap is a shared promise to make health services better for every resident of Benguet. Among its pillars are:

• Institutionalizing the Healthier Benguet Caravan and SHAYAW (Stellar Health Achievement Yearly Awards), bringing services directly to communities,
• Establishing an integrated Health Care Provider Network (HCPN),
• Strengthening data-driven decision-making at all levels,
• Ensuring sustainable health financing, and
• Expanding community participation and Human Resources for Health (HRH) capacity-building.

Support that Makes a Difference

DOH-CAR continues to give technical support and push for clearer alignment with the national office. PhilHealth helps by sharing data that supports equity and better program decisions. 

ZFF, aside from its leadership training, also provides mentoring, coaching, technical sessions, and grants. It is now working on building an executive dashboard to help local leaders make smarter, data-informed choices.

A Call to Co-Create

Benguet is moving forward, and they are inviting everyone to join. Health cannot be improved by the government alone. It takes a whole-of-society effort: national agencies, local leaders, civil society, private organizations, and citizens, all working together.

The roadmap is ready. The leaders are committed. And the people are hopeful.

Authors: Joan Kidatan, ZFF LHS Provincial Associate for Baguio City; Krizzia Esperanza, ZFF Corporate Communications Associate

The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), through The Challenge Initiative (TCI)-Philippines, proudly celebrates the graduation of five cities from the TCI program.

On November 28, 2024, during the TCI Graduation Colloquium, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Puerto Princesa (Batch 1), Baguio, and San Jose (Batch 2) shared their success stories, innovations, and lessons learned in addressing challenges related to adolescent health and family planning.

Since 2020, these cities have collaborated with TCI-Philippines, co-managed by the William S. Gates Sr. Institute for Population and Reproductive Health and ZFF, along with the Department of Health and Commission on Population Development. Together, they have worked to create adolescent and youth-friendly communities by empowering local leaders, city teams, master coaches, and youth leaders in bridging leadership and governance. Here’s to their continued success in transforming communities!

READ MORE:

Five Cities Celebrate Milestone in Adolescent Health and Family Planning Efforts

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