More than 470 malaria warriors, including Municipal Health Officers and their representatives from various municipalities in Palawan, attended the 14th Provincial Malaria Congress on Tuesday, November 28, at Citystate Asturias Hotel in Puerto Princesa.
The congress aims to gather all malaria warriors in the city and province to provide additional knowledge and updates, particularly on the current status of malaria in the province.
It also focuses on ongoing interventions needed to achieve the goal of making Palawan entirely malaria-free.
Themed “Time to Deliver Zero Malaria: Invest, Innovate, Implement Formula ‘M’ for Malaria: Unite, Engage, Collaborate, Participate,” the event is spearheaded by the Provincial Health Office (PHO)- Kilusan Ligtas Malaria (KLM) of the Provincial Government, led by Governor V. Dennis M. Socrates, in collaboration with the Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), and the Department of Health (DOH).
The program kicked off with a parade featuring malaria warriors from 17 municipalities and Puerto Princesa, marching from Robinsons Place Palawan to Citystate Asturias Hotel.
In her message, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Faye Erika Q. Labrador stated that the fight against malaria would persist until the province is entirely free from the disease.
Despite observing an increase in cases this year, Dr. Labrador emphasized the commitment to eliminating malaria in Palawan.
Aileen Balderian, the KLM Program Manager, discussed the current situation of malaria in the province, including challenges in program implementation, while Mr. Al-Patrick Aquino from DOH Center for Health Development (CHD) MIMAROPA provided insights into the national and regional malaria situation.
Ms. Jenevil V. Tombaga of PHO shared information about Republic Act No. 7883 and DILG and DOH JMC No. 2023-001 regarding the Retention and Continued Service of Barangay Health Workers.
Executive Assistant IV Ma. Elizabeth M. Sabando, representing Governor V. Dennis M. Socrates, also delivered a message highlighting the Provincial Government’s continuous efforts in healthcare infrastructure, innovative approaches, community engagement, and coordinated efforts to reduce and eliminate malaria cases in the province.
The program also included the recognition of outstanding malaria warriors for their contributions to the fight against the disease.
Additionally, various games, contests, and a social night have been organized for participants as a token of appreciation for their dedication to service.
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