Agusan Norte strengthens fight against hypertension, diabetes under WHO-backed program
By Nora L. Molde
Representatives from the World Health Organization, Department of Health Caraga, and the Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office conduct the monitoring and field visits in various municipalities in Agusan del Norte for the program on “Proteksyon Para sa Altapresyon” to strengthen prevention, early detection, and management of hypertension and diabetes in the province. (Photo courtesy of PHO Agusan del Norte)
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The province of Agusan del Norte intensified its campaign against hypertension and diabetes through a four-day monitoring and field visit for the “Proteksyon Para sa Altapresyon” program, reinforcing local health initiatives and supporting the national health priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. under the Universal Health Care (UHC) agenda.
A key benefit of the program is its focus on early detection, prevention of complications, and timely management of hypertension and diabetes, which significantly reduce hospital admissions, prevent premature deaths, and improve the long-term quality of life of at-risk populations.
According to Provincial Health Officer Odelio Ferrer, the initiative plays a crucial role in reducing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the province.
“This initiative will further strengthen our preventive and promotive health programs, particularly in ensuring early detection, proper management, and continuous monitoring of patients with hypertension and diabetes. Through stronger collaboration and community participation, we can protect our people from complications caused by diseases,” Ferrer said.
The program was implemented in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) through the WHO representative, Doctor Rey Arturo Fernandez, and the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, led by regional program coordinator Romelyn Esther Torralba-Santos.
Agusan del Norte was selected as a pilot implementation site due to the high number of residents at risk of hypertension and diabetes. The initiative aims to strengthen local health systems through improved risk assessment, early screening, intensified health education, and timely intervention – key strategies in reducing complications and deaths associated with NCDs.
Beyond improved health outcomes, the program also enhances the capacity of local health systems by strengthening technical competencies, improving coordination among health workers, and promoting evidence-based decision-making at the municipal level.
Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante underscored the importance of aligning local efforts with national health priorities to ensure more responsive and inclusive healthcare services.
“The provincial government remains committed to supporting programs that promote healthier communities and improve access to quality healthcare services. By working closely with our partners and local stakeholders, we continue to build a stronger and more responsive health system for every Agusanon,” Gov. Amante said.
The four-day monitoring covered the municipalities of Carmen, Buenavista, Nasipit, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Santiago, Tubay, Magallanes, Remedios T. Romualdez, Las Nieves, and Cabadbaran City.
The activity reflects the sustained commitment of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office, DOH-CHD Caraga, local government units, and partner agencies in advancing preventive healthcare and supporting the national government’s goal of building healthier and more resilient Filipino communities. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)