by Judy P. Deveza, MD and Thricia Bless Ventura
In line with its heartfelt tagline, “There’s more to see and do beyond screening,” the Newborn Screening Continuity Clinic (NBSCC) of the Department of Pediatrics held the 2nd Reunion of Saved Babies (ROSB) for the provinces of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur on February 27, 2025, at the scenic Pangil Beach Resort in Currimao, Ilocos Norte.
This annual gathering celebrates the lives saved through the Newborn Screening (NBS) Program, while also recognizing the tireless efforts of families, health workers, and stakeholders involved in ensuring early diagnosis and continuous care for children, some with rare but treatable conditions. The 2025 ROSB was one of the highlights of the 57th Foundation Anniversary of the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) and was supported by the Department of Health Ilocos Center for Health Development (DOH-Ilocos CHD), the Gender and Development (GAD) Fund of MMMH&MC, and several generous sponsors.
The event gathered around 200 participants, including patients, parents, and Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) from various municipalities. Dr. Ma. Rosita Quitola-Manangan, chairperson of the Department of Pediatrics, formally opened the program. Following this, Dr. Maria Lourdes K. Otayza, medical center chief of MMMH&MC, delivered a virtual inspirational message, commending the families and health teams for their unwavering commitment.
Dr. Jun B. Orosa, chief of the Medical Professional Staff, graced the event and expressed his full support for the continuity of care for patients diagnosed through NBS. A special video message from Dr. Michelle Abadingo, director of the Newborn Screening Reference Center (NSRC), was also shown. Dr. Abadingo extended her heartfelt thanks to the MMMH&MC for its dedication to the country’s Newborn Screening Program.
Local government and health officials were also in attendance. Dr. Rickson Balalio, provincial health officer of Ilocos Norte, and Cyrus Jed G. Ramos, development management officer IV from PDOHO Ilocos Norte, both delivered messages of encouragement and reaffirmed their commitment to support NBS services at the community level.
One of the program’s highlights was the introduction of the Patient Leaders Organization (PLO). Presented by Dr. Modesty A. Leano, PLO chairperson, the organization aims to empower parents by helping them advocate for their children’s needs, navigate the healthcare system, and build a strong peer-support network. The newly formed Naraniag nga Biyag ken Salun-at (N.B.S.) officer group members also took their oath of office, which was administered by Dr. Orosa.
Guest speaker Dr. Ma. Paz Virginia K. Otayza gave a moving speech, sharing the humble beginnings of the NBS program at the MMMH&MC and how the NBSCC has expanded its capacity to care for patients with confirmed disorders through the Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS). The speaker expressed optimism for future breakthroughs and reiterated the institution’s commitment to providing quality care.
In the afternoon, a health education series was conducted where Dr. Alistaire A. Aguinaldo, dentist, discussed oral health for children. Christian Jay Idica, a social welfare officer, presented various financial assistance programs available to families, and Dennis M. Rubio, a computer maintenance technologist , introduced the My Health Portal, an online system for managing outpatient appointments and accessing hospital services.
Simultaneously, a multispecialty clinic was held that offered free consultations with specialists in pediatric endocrinology, hematology, neurology, and metabolics. Additional services included dietary counseling, social work consultations, fluoride treatments, and assistance in My Health Portal enrollment.
A total of 43 patients received the said free services and support, including those diagnosed with Congenital Hypothyroidism (16 cases), Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (3 cases), Alpha Thalassemia (20 cases), Maple Syrup Urine Disease (3 cases), and Adenylosuccinate Lyase Deficiency (1 case). These patients benefited from free medications, medical foods, laboratory assistance, and ongoing medical management.
Another heartwarming moment of the day was the gift-giving activity, where families received bags of nutritious food, fruits, sacks of rice, and goody bags for the children. Free vitamins, essential medicines, and hygiene kits were also distributed.
The program closed with remarks from Nicole Marie Bugarin, NBS program manager of DOH-Ilocos CHD, who expressed her thanks to all the participants and reaffirmed the center’s annual commitment to ROSB events.
The NBSCC team extended its heartfelt thanks to the MMMH&MC, DOH-Ilocos CHD, and the Newborn Screening Center–Northern Luzon (NSCNL) for their unwavering support. Special recognition was also given to the various LGUs and RHUs that provided free transportation for patients and their families.
The day ended with a joyful group photo session by the beach, capturing smiles, shared stories, and renewed hope. The 2nd Reunion of Saved Babies was a beautiful reminder that beyond science and service, it is compassion, community, and continuity that truly save lives.
