by Fe Laarnie A. Camayang, RN and Mathew R. Medrano, MD

The Department of Health MIMAROPA Center for Health Development conducted a series of Newborn Screening (NBS) Meetings and Updates for Health Facility Coordinators from Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, and Romblon to further strengthen the implementation of the Newborn Screening Program in the region. Sessions for Occidental Mindoro were held on October 8–10, 2025, while those for Marinduque and Romblon followed on October 21–24, 2025 at the St. Giles Hotel in Makati City.
Led by Dr. Mathew Medrano and Regional NBS Coordinator Fe Laarnie Camayang, the activity was organized in collaboration with the Newborn Screening Center–National Institutes of Health, PhilHealth MIMAROPA, and the NBS Continuity Clinic MIMAROPA. The meetings aimed to enhance coordination among facilities, improve data reporting and sample management, and strengthen quality improvement practices across the program.
Participants also engaged in discussions emphasizing the need for advocacy and capacity building to ensure timely screening, referral, and follow-up for all newborns. The active involvement of
health facility coordinators and the support of the Provincial DOH Offices
contributed to the success of the activity.
