by Novelyn C. Lacuanan
The Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) Program Symposium was held at the QLife Building in San Marcos, Cabarroguis, Quirino on Aug. 20, 2025 to strengthen the knowledge and skills of barangay health workers (BHWs) from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), as well as other health workers and professionals across the province.
Organized in partnership with the Provincial Health Office of Quirino, the symposium gathered 95 participants from all six municipalities and 132 barangays, including 21 GIDA barangays. Representatives from the Provincial DOH Office, district hospitals, and rural health units also took part.
The program featured lectures from experts, including Marry Jean S. Tomo, who discussed the background of newborn screening; Novelyn C. Lacuanan, who highlighted the role of health workers in follow-up; and Melanie Dotuerte, who explained the roles and functions of the BHWs under RA 7883 and the Health Communities’ seven priority areas. Aillen Sagun, senior health program officer, also presented on universal health care.
The symposium concluded with a video presentation on newborn screening disorders and processes, followed by the closing remarks from Ressie P. Gomez. This activity forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen newborn screening services and ensure better health outcomes for children across Quirino province.
