DOH Hosts Free Health and Wellness Event in Caloocan to Combat Tuberculosis
In observance of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, the Department of Health (DOH) hosted a free health and wellness event at the Caloocan Sports Complex in North Caloocan on March 15, 2025. The event, held ahead of the official March 24th commemoration, aimed to raise awareness, provide free screenings, and promote early detection of TB.
A Day of Action Against Tuberculosis
The event featured a range of activities designed to engage the community and promote proactive health measures:
- City-Wide Motorcade: A motorcade initiated the event, traversing the city to encourage residents to participate in free TB testing and active case finding initiatives.
- National Tuberculosis Active Case Finding: Free screenings were provided to facilitate early identification of TB cases, enabling prompt medical intervention.
- Educational Sessions: Experts delivered informative sessions on TB prevention, treatment options, and the critical importance of completing prescribed medication for full recovery.
Key Officials Leading the Initiative
The event was spearheaded by key officials from the DOH and the local government:
- DR. TEODORO “TED” HERBOSA, Secretary of Health: Secretary Herbosa emphasized the DOH’s commitment to eradicating TB through proactive community engagement.
- ASEC. FARWA M. HOMBRE, Public Health Service Cluster: ASEC. Hombre oversaw the implementation of public health initiatives during the event.
- DR. LESTER TAN, Director IV- MMCHD: Director Tan played a crucial role in coordinating the event’s logistics and operations within the Metro Manila Center for Health Development.
- HON. DALE GONZALO “ALONG” MALAPITAN, Mayor of Caloocan: Mayor Malapitan demonstrated the local government’s support for the DOH’s efforts to combat TB within the community.
“Early detection and consistent treatment are vital in our fight against tuberculosis,” stated Secretary Herbosa during an address to the attendees. “This event is a testament to our commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of every Filipino.”
The event, which ran from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, served as a crucial platform for disseminating information and providing essential health services to the residents of Caloocan. The DOH aims to replicate such initiatives across the nation to strengthen its fight against TB and promote overall public health.
