by Maite Denise U. Bobis, Sherelyn A. Cantonjos, RM, RN, and DOH-CHD Bicol
Developmental Pediatric Consultation
The DOH Bicol CHD, in partnership with Newborn Screening Continuity Clinics (NBSCC) across the region, conducted a two-day developmental pediatric consultation in Legazpi City. Dr. Annelyn Fatima Lopez and Dr. Maria Angela Mallari, visiting specialists from Manila, delivered lectures on how certain developmental challenges intersect with inborn errors of metabolism. Around 20 families were given dedicated sessions where their children’s communication, motor development, behaviors, and routines were evaluated.
The activity drew strong participation from the NBSCC teams, including Dr. Michelle Semania, Dr. Marive Flores-Declaro, Dr. Marlon Villos, and NBS nurses who assisted families throughout the process. Nutritional counseling and psychosocial guidance were also offered to support daily home management.
Orientation for Newborn Screening Facilities
To strengthen the region’s newborn screening network, the DOH Bicol conducted an health facilities applying for accreditation as Newborn Screening Facilities. Participants first completed the online didactic course through the Serbisyong Salud Bikolnon (SSB) Academy on August 18 and September 11, 2025. This was followed by supervised heel-prick practicum sessions held on September 17, 2025, at the BRHMC and on October 7, 2025, at the BMC. A total of three facilities—one public birthing center and two private birthing homes—took part in the sessions as aspiring NSFs. During the orientation, assessors reviewed documentation, specimen quality standards, and facility workflows to help guide each site toward accreditation readiness.
Reunion of Saved Babies
As part of the Newborn Screening Awareness Month celebration, the DOH Bicol CHD, through its Family Health Cluster, conducted the “Reunion of Saved Babies: Lay Forum for Families of Children with Inborn Errors of Metabolism (IEMs).” Held on October 23, 2025, at the La Roca Veranda Suites and Restaurant in Legazpi City, Albay, the event brought together patients identified through the Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) and confirmed to have IEMs, such as Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH) and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). They were joined by their families, along with Newborn Screening (NBS) coordinators from partner institutions and local government units, as well as municipal health officers. A total of 22 patients from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogonn attended.
The event highlighted success stories of hope, perseverance and the positive impact of the NBS Program through the inspiring testimonies of five parents whose children were diagnosed and treated through NBS. Their stories underscored the importance of early detection, proper care, and community support in giving every child a brighter future. Adding joy to the celebration, three saved babies showcased their dancing and singing talents, reflecting the life-changing benefits of timely NBS.
