by DOH-CHD CAR, Nikki D. Dela Cruz, RN, MPH, and Mariel Franceska M. Magat, RMT
Network Dialogue Strengthens Collaboration
The Department of Health–Center for Health Development Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CHD-CAR) held a Network Dialogue with Newborn Screening Partners on September 24, 2025, in Baguio City. The meeting brought together representatives from the NSRC, NSC-Central Luzon, BGHMC-NBSCC, and the RLED to review updates and address challenges from the first two quarters of 2025.
During the dialogue, the NSC-CL presented facility performance findings, including unsatisfactory and unfit ratings, while the BGHMC-NBSCC shared updates on positive cases requiring coordinated action. The representatives from the RLED shared their monitoring findings, following the previous meeting’s recommendation to involve their division in the implementation of Republic Act 9288. The activity reaffirmed the region’s commitment to ensuring timely and effective newborn care.
Reunion of Saved Babies Highlights NBS Impact
A “Reunion of Saved Babies” was held on October 27, 2025 in Baguio City that gathered around 20 families of children diagnosed with congenital disorders detected through newborn screening. Experts from the Baguio General Hospital Medical Center (BGHMC) led discussions on developmental milestones, expanded NBS, and specific conditions such as congenital hypothyroidism and thalassemia. Free consultations and check-ups were also provided to ensure continuous medical monitoring.
The event was organized by the DOH-CHD-CAR through its Health Promotion Unit and NBS Program, in partnership with the NBS Continuity Clinic Cordillera and BGHMC, ensuring families have access to sustained care and appropriate clinical support.
Program Implementation Review Advances Regional Efforts
From September 25–26, 2025, the DOH-CHD-CAR hosted the Newborn Screening Program Implementation Review, bringing together regional and provincial representatives, coordinators, and partner institutions. Discussions centered on improving sample quality, enhancing facility performance, and sharing best practices to strengthen program delivery.
The NSRC representatives presented updates on proposed satellite clinics in Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Abra, expanding access to continuity care in the region. The event concluded with facility work action plans, demonstrating collective efforts to address implementation gaps and uphold timely newborn screening for all.
VYLH-CAR Camp Revitalizes Youth Health Advocacy
After seven years, the VYLH-CAR Bahagi Camp returned on October 10–12, 2025, gathering 39 student leaders from the University of Abra and UP Los Baños. The camp featured vision-setting exercises, health program updates, team-building activities, and focused advocacy sessions on birth defects, folic acid, rare diseases, expanded NBS, and long-term care. The event renewed the youth sector’s crucial role in health promotion.
The VYLH-Philippines is a nationwide network of youth leaders and organizations from universities and communities, united by a shared commitment to volunteerism and public service, particularly in promoting better birth outcomes through health advocacy.
