Proclamation No. 540 dated January 20, 2004 declared every 1st week of October of each year as “National Newborn Screening Week”. The constitution of the Philippines provides that: “the state shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and most specially the right of children to survival, development and special protection with full recognition of the nature of childhood and its special needs”. To ensure that the targeted coverage will be met, there is a need to make certain that adequate and sustained NBS services such as information, education, communication, screening, recall and follow-up are provided in all LGU Health facilities as well as private health facilities.
Last October 17, 2014, the Department of Heath Regional Office No. XII conducted its first ever Newborn Screening Week Celebration Kick- Off Activity at Robinsons Mall, General Santos City. The said activity aims to promote regional information campaign in order to generate public awareness on newborn screening and generate full support from public and private sectors which is essential in ensuring the implementation of the program.
The activity started with a motorcade around General Santos City at exactly 9:00 in the morning. Dr. Edgardo R. Sandig, General Santos City Health Officer gave the Welcome Message, Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera gave his message through letter and was shared to us by his Executive Assistant Mr. Dave Areglado, Dr. Adimelca C. Gangoso in lieu of Director Teogenes F. Baluma of DOH Regional Office No. XII gave the Inspirational Message that enlightened everyone.
There were 300 participants in the said activity. Each coming from different sectors of the community such as the health workers from private lying- ins, government and private hospitals, the BHWs, barangay officials and midwifery and nursing students of various colleges and universities of the city. Visitors from Newborn Screening Center- Mindanao also came headed by Dr. Conchita Abarquez.
Ceremonial Newborn Screening was also done to two (2) babies from MAP Lying In Center for free. Indeed, I can say that the activity was a success and I am sure that the campaign would be of great help especially in reaching out the region’s target on Newborn Screening coverage.
