Cebu City, Philippines — Governor Pamela Baricuatro is set to advance the health and wellness of Cebuano students by supporting the Department of Health–Health Promotion Bureau’s (DOH-HPB) “Healthy Learning Institutions Program” in at least 45 public schools across the province. The program aims to integrate health promotion into the school environment, making health education and wellness practices an essential part of the learning experience.
The initiative was discussed during a meeting on Wednesday, August 27, attended by DOH-HPB officials, led by Director III Dr. Dominic Maddumba, alongside representatives from DOH-7, headed by Dr. Rannie Gravador, a former Provincial Health Officer of Cebu.
Health as a Right and Priority
Governor Baricuatro emphasized that health is not just a service—it is a fundamental right for every Cebuano. “Under my administration, health is not just a service—it is a right of the Cebuanos. And it is my commitment that every Cebuano will feel that right being fulfilled,” she stated.
Highlighting the importance of partnerships, the governor added, “I am grateful for this partnership that puts prevention, education, and healthy living at the center. This is how we learn best: by working together, by sharing insights, and grounding policies.”
Program Background and Expansion
The Healthy Learning Institutions Program is designed to train teachers and school administrators on creating learning environments that promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness among students.
- Initial Allocation: ₱4.5 million in 2022 for 15 public schools in Cebu, identified by the Department of Education (DepEd) Cebu Province.
- Challenges: The initial rollout was delayed due to lack of approval from the previous provincial administration.
- Current Expansion: Governor Baricuatro has now committed to the program’s implementation in 45 schools, adding 30 new schools to ensure broader reach. The Capitol will also provide counterpart funding to support the program fully.
The expansion underscores the provincial government’s commitment to promoting holistic health in educational institutions, ensuring that Cebuano students grow up in environments conducive to learning, wellness, and personal development.
Program Objectives
The Healthy Learning Institutions Program focuses on three core areas:
- Health Education: Equipping students and teachers with knowledge on nutrition, hygiene, mental health, and disease prevention.
- School Environment: Ensuring that schools have clean, safe, and health-friendly facilities.
- Teacher Training: Training educators to integrate health-promoting practices into their daily routines and teaching methods.
By implementing these strategies, the program aims to instill positive health behaviors early, ultimately reducing preventable illnesses and improving overall academic performance.
DOH-HPB’s Role and Vision
The DOH-HPB is the national body responsible for developing and implementing health promotion policies in the Philippines. Working in partnership with local governments, the bureau focuses on:
- Building healthy communities through awareness campaigns.
- Promoting positive health behaviors among children and adults.
- Supporting the national universal healthcare agenda by embedding preventive health measures in schools and workplaces.
Dr. Dominic Maddumba said the initiative ensures DOH health education reaches all Filipinos, especially vulnerable public school students.
Governor Baricuatro’s Commitment to Health and Education
Governor Baricuatro’s administration has prioritized accessible, preventive, and quality healthcare for all Cebuanos. By supporting the Healthy Learning Institutions Program, the provincial government ensures that children and teachers receive proper guidance, health education, and resources to thrive in a safe and nurturing school environment.
The governor also stressed that prevention is key to public health. “We do not only treat illness; we prevent it. Healthy schools mean healthier families and stronger communities,” she added.
Impact on Cebu Schools and Communities
The implementation of the program in 45 public schools is expected to bring multiple benefits:
- Improved student health: Fewer illnesses and absenteeism due to better hygiene, nutrition, and wellness practices.
- Enhanced learning environments: Schools equipped with facilities that support both mental and physical well-being.
- Teacher empowerment: Educators trained to implement health-conscious routines and lead wellness programs.
- Community engagement: Schools serve as models for healthy practices, extending positive behaviors to families and neighborhoods.
By embedding health into the school system, the program lays the foundation for lifelong healthy habits among Cebuano youth.
A Vision for a Healthier Cebu
The Capitol–DOH partnership represents a significant step in Governor Baricuatro’s vision of inclusive, preventive, and rights-based healthcare. Through this program, Cebu not only strengthens its public health framework but also nurtures a generation of students who understand the value of wellness.
Governor Baricuatro concluded the meeting with a strong commitment: “We will ensure that every school in Cebu can become a beacon of health and learning. Together with DOH, we will create an environment where students, teachers, and communities thrive.”
Conclusion
The Healthy Learning Institutions Program in Cebu promotes school health, benefiting 45 public schools with safer, healthier learning environments.
