BHW Convention: A Tribute for the Unsung Heroes
By Ciara Fandinola
PASAY - Over four thousand Barangay Health Workers surged the Cuneta Astrodome as they waved and cheered in festive colours during the Regional BHW Convention, September 29. Now on its 2nd year, the DOH-NCRO gathered once again the “unsung heroes” of our health delivery system through a program that recognized their immeasurable efforts and awarded exceptional BHWs in the region.
The convention started with an entrance of colors led by each LGU’s City Health Officer, PHC Coordinator, Development Management Officers (DMO) and BHW President. This was followed by the key officials composed of Undersecretary of Health Dr. Herminigildo Valle, Regional Director Dr. Ariel Valencia, Chief of Local Health Support Division Dr. Amelia Medina and representative of Mayor Antonino Calixto, Atty. Nick Reyes.
Congresswoman Emi Calixto-Rubiano also arrived in the latter part, followed by Assistant Secretary of Health Dr. Eric Tayag who did not fail the crowd with his most anticipated dance number.
Moreover, DMO IV, Jaya Ebuen presented a thorough discussion of Philippine Health Agenda followed by a comprehensive talk by PHFDC-Program and Health Facility Development Cluster Nurse III, Jimbo Vitudio. Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control Cluster Senior Health Program Officer, Ramon Ferrer Jr provided a briefer on EO26.
A turnover ceremony was then organized to distribute vests, bags, umbrellas and identification cards for the BHWs. In addition to that, various prizes sponsored by LGUs were also given through a raffle draw.
Not only was the activity showered with wisdom, awards and prominent visitors, it was overflowing of entertainment as BHWs owned the spotlight during the dance competition.
To conclude the day, newly elected BHW Presidents, Primary Health Care Coordinator, Outstanding BHWs and those in service for more than 30 years coming from the 17 LGUs were recognized. In the dance competition, District 1 was hailed as the Champion followed by District 4, Dirstrict 2 and District 3.