The Department of Health – Center of Health Development Cordillera (DOH-CHD-CAR) successfully convened the highly anticipated reactivation of the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) in Abra, bringing together advisers from Divine World College and Abra Valley Colleges, alongside the Provincial NBS Coordinator, chief nurses from both private and government level I hospitals and healthcare workers from Bangued Rural Health Unit, and a group of young leaders, all united in their commitment to enhancing public health in the province. Spearheaded by Dr. Virginia L. Narciso, Chief of the Local Health Support Division, the event was held on October 21-22, 2024, at the Abra Provincial Capitol.
The activity aimed to get the support of relevant stakeholders, empower the youth engaged in advocacy and health promotion activities for improved health practices, and facilitate meaningful engagement within local communities.
Dr. Narciso and Ramonito Nuique, Treasurer of the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health, highlighted the significance of youth involvement in health programs and the critical role of young leaders in addressing local health challenges, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Nuique elaborated on the successful strategies of the organization and the impact of collaboration in the delivery of safe and quality health services.
Throughout the two-day event, participants were introduced to the initiatives in public health, especially the implementation of newborn screening, rare diseases, and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women. The activities served as an avenue for building a strong partnership among concerned stakeholders.
Health officials and representatives from key stakeholders have expressed their support and commitment to the mission of the VYLH, emphasizing the importance of encouraging the next generation of health advocates to continue working towards creating healthier, more informed communities and productive members of the society.
El Jay P. Galera, a nursing student from Abra Valley Colleges was elected as the new Provincial VYLH Coordinator, following a selection process that included thirty-one (31) participants from both Abra Valley Colleges and Divine World Colleges.
Additionally, action plans for the year 2025 have been developed based on the VYLH calendar year of activities. The orientation and advocacy meeting motivated and empowered the local youth leaders to implement appropriate health promotion and advocacy measures that would help in the betterment of the Newborn Screening (NBS) Program.
by Dr. Virginia L. Narciso
