by Sherelyn A. Cantonjos & Mary Jean C. Carpio
The Cagayan Valley Provincial Newborn Screening Enterprise conducted an orientation on the Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) Program on July 18, 2025 at the Highlander Hotel & Resort, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. The event gathered nurses, midwives, and medical technologists to strengthen their knowledge and skills in delivering timely and quality screening for newborns.
The session opened with an overview of newborn screening as a simple test done 24 hours after birth to detect treatable metabolic, genetic, and endocrine disorders. Speakers emphasized the importance of early detection in preventing complications and saving lives, while reiterating the goals of the national program: reducing child morbidity and mortality, improving quality of life, and advancing public health.
Participants were oriented on the Newborn Screening Act of 2004 (RA 9288), its Implementing Rules and Regulations, and relevant DOH issuances. The step-by-step screening process was discussed, from pre-screening counseling to sample collection, laboratory testing, result interpretation, and follow-up care. The expanded panel of ENBS conditions—such as Congenital Hypothyroidism, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, G6PD Deficiency, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, Maple Syrup Urine Disease, and other metabolic disorders—was also presented. An open forum addressed common issues, including the cost of repeat collections, proper naming protocols for babies of unmarried parents, documentation of non-institutional deliveries, and handling errors on filter cards. Clear guidance was provided to promote consistency and accuracy across facilities.
The orientation was capped with a call for healthcare providers to remain strong advocates of newborn screening. By upholding standards and ensuring universal access, they affirm their vital role in protecting the health and future of Filipino children.
