DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – Aiming to raise awareness about heart health, wellness, and prevention of non-communicable diseases, the Department of Health’s Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) partnered with the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Health Office for the culmination of Heart’s Month 2024 at the Zamboanga del Norte Cultural and Sports Center.

With the theme “Ka-heartner, Puso ang Piliin Ngayong Heart Month" , the program served as a platform to advocate for the heart health of local senior citizens, high-risk groups, and stakeholders.  

In her welcoming message, Zamboanga del Norte Governor Rosalina Jalosjos, represented by  Anabel G. Jalosjos, executive assistant for health, emphasized the need for awareness of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) being one of the health concerns in the Philippines.

“Heart disease is one of the major health concerns of our nation. An initiative such as this serves as a vital platform for awareness and promoting preventive measures. The Department of Health's commitment in fighting heart disease is commendable and deserves our full support,” she said.

Gondelina S. Velasco, a 66-year-old retired teacher and a resident of Turno Dipolog City, expressed her appreciation for the program. 

"Para ma active ug ma practice ang atong heart, mao ni ilang mga activity nga giandam para ma exercise . Nindot kaayo ang ilahang initiative para sa amoa seniors kay aron pud at least ma activate ug madasig mi.” she shared.

(To keep our hearts active and in practice, these are the activities they prepared for us to exercise. Their initiative for us seniors is truly commendable, so that we can be activated and motivated at least).

"Bisag senior gitagaan gihapon mi ug prebilihiyo nga mo attend ani nga activity. Di ra pud mi mag pundo ug maka exercise ba kaysa naa ra sa balay di na maunat-unat ang joints."

(Even as senior citizens, we are still given the privilege to attend this activity. Instead of just staying at home, we can exercise to prevent our joints from becoming stiff)

Dr. Eduardo M. Luayon, provincial health officer-in-charge, discussed the regional programs and initiatives on cardiovascular diseases and preventive measures with the local efforts in maintaining heart wellness and addressing non-communicable diseases towards a Healthy Pilipinas community. 

Meanwhile,  Dr. Cookie Pie H. Gallemit-Villegas, a medical specialist of Zamboanga del Norte Medical Center, underscored the importance of taking care of the heart as being the vital part of the body in fostering a healthy lifestyle.

The event featured various heart-healthy exercises like Zumba, The Ring Toss Game, and Balloon Dart Game as well as informational sessions, to promote a proactive approach to cardiovascular health. (EDT/PJF/JAP/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)