Both the provincial government of Catanduanes and the Virac local government unit have received recognition as Green Achievers from the the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol) on its 12th Salud Bikolnon Awards held last Dec. 14, 2023 in Legazpi City.
The 12th Salud Bikolnon Awards bestowed recognition to outstanding provincial, municipal, and city LGUs, alongside esteemed health partners and stakeholders.
Guided by the resonant theme, “Ipadagos ang Serbisyong Salud Bikolnon para sa mauswag na rehiyon,” this prestigious event aimed to gather and acknowledge the exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication of LGUs and partner agencies committed to realizing a Healthy Pilipinas for every Bicolano.
A total of 133 awards and recognition were given during the awarding ceremony, with Catanduanes PLGU hailed as the Green Achiever for the provincial level this year.
The administration of Governor Joseph Cua received a P500,000 cash prize and a plaque of recognition.
On the other hand, Virac was among the three municipalities which got the Green Achiever Award, alongside Bulan, Sorsogon, and Pio V. Corpuz, Masbate. Each municipal LGU received P200,000 cash prize and a plaque.
The Green Achiever Award is given to the top provincial, municipal, and city LGUs with the highest number of green marks on the LGU scorecard.
Bato LGU also won two awards, for Best Functional Community-Based Rehabilitation Program Implementation and Best Mental Health and Substance-Use Prevention Program (MHSUPP) Implementation.
The Catanduanes Provincial Health Office (PHO) likewise scored double victories, for Best Performing LGU on the Community House-to-House PhilPEN Risk Assessment and Best in Prevention of Blindness Program Implementation.
Continuing its string of awards at Salud Bicolnon, the Juan M. Alberto Memorial District Hospital was feted for Best Institutionalized Mental Health and Drug-Free Workplace with Wellness Program Services for Employees and Best Mental Health and Substance-Use Prevention Program (MHSUPP) Implementation
The Abaca Eagles Club based in Catanduanes got an award for Best Mental Health and Substance-Use Prevention Program (MHSUPP) Implementation while the Eastern Bicol Medical Center (EBMC) got a plaque as Best Implementer of Newborn Hearing Screening Program.
The Chikiting Ligtas Award 2023 for Catanduanes went to the municipalities of Panganiban, Pandan, Bato, Gigmoto and Caramoran.
During his video keynote address, Secretary of Health Dr. Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the paramount importance of forging strong partnerships to enhance the quality of healthcare provided by the Human Resources for Health.
“We at the Department of Health (DOH) are grateful for the immeasurable support, contributions, and collaborations that we have shared through the years,” he added.
In his speech, DOH Undersecretary Dr. Nestor Santiago, Jr. underscored the need for health advocates to continue striving for excellence and to steadfastly champion health for all during their service.
Dr. Rosa Maria B. Rempillo, Officer-in-Charge Assistant Regional Director, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the LGUs and health partners for their outstanding efforts in delivering diverse healthcare services to the public.
In a poignant moment, Regional Director Ernie V. Vera expressed his gratitude to all health partners, LGUs, dedicated co-workers, and DOH Bicol employees, acknowledging their integral roles in his journey with DOH Bicol CHD. The ceremony not only celebrated achievements but also highlighted the collaborative spirit that propels the region towards a healthier and more prosperous future. (DOH5/NRB)