by Sherelyn A. Cantonjos & Mary Jean C. Carpio
The Department of Health–Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) Family Health Cluster, in partnership with the City Health Office–Naga, conducted the “Conference for Newborn Screening Facilities” on August 20, 2025, at the Naga City Regent Hotel, Camarines Sur. The activity was attended by newborn screening (NBS) coordinators and owners of both public and private newborn screening facilities (NSFs) in Naga City and Camarines Sur.
The conference officially commenced with the welcome remarks of Dr. Gisela Joyce M. Claveron-de la Rosa, head of the Family Health Cluster. In her message, Dr. Claveron-de la Rosa emphasized the importance of newborn screening and the vital role of the NSFs. She also acknowledged the concerted efforts of stakeholders in achieving wider coverage of newborn screening.
Key topics presented during the conference included the ENBS Strategic Framework, ENBS Performance Rating, Review on How to Spot ENBS Samples, Review of the NBS Flow of Operations (Steps 3–7), NBS Continuity Clinic (Bicol Medical Center), ENBS Policies and Guidelines, and Program Updates on Newborn Screening and Newborn Hearing Screening. Each topic was designed to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to uphold quality standards and continuously improve NBS services.
In addition, the performance of the participating newborn screening facilities was presented to raise awareness of their current status and strengthen their commitment toward improving coverage and reducing unsatisfactory rates. NBS kits were also distributed to key healthcare facilities.
This initiative reflects the sustained commitment of the DOH Bicol CHD and its partners to strengthen NBS implementation in the region. By enhancing the capabilities of health facilities and empowering health workers, the program reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding every child’s health through access to quality newborn screening services—ensuring early detection, timely management, and prevention of conditions that may affect a child’s growth and development.
