BHW Summit: Honoring Barangay Health Workers in Northern Samar

Symbolic of their hardwork and dedication as frontliners in healthcare service delivery, the Barangay Health Workers in Northern Samar were honored during the 2nd Provincial Barangay Health Workers' Summit held yesterday, October 8, 2024, at the Ibabao Hall, Provincial Capitol, Catarman.

With 380 BHWs in attendance, the gathering was filled with fun and learning, strengthening the commitment of community healthworkers and provided a platform for the sector to air their concerns with provincial leaders and concerned national government agencies.

Alongside the fun and lectures, 5 top performing BHWs in the province were recognized by the Provincial Government for their years of outstanding service in promoting community health. Ms. Encarnacion A. Burac from Mapanas ranked first, while Ms. Brenda O. Enero from San Roque got the second place and Ms. Eva A. Lozano from the municipality of Catarman ranked third as the best performing BHW. Ms. Helen P. Fraga who rendered more than a decade of service as barangay health worker was also awarded, a well-deserved recognition of their contribution to creating a healthier Northern Samar.

"An aton mga Barangay Health Workers an nakila san mga tawo sa ira komunidad ngan una nga nakakaaram sa mga issues sa barangay labi na sa pagtaga-health. Sanglit nasuporta ak san ginduduso nga palisiya nga masecure an tenure san aton mga BHWs," Governor Edwin Onghuan remarked, emphasizing the vital role of BHWs who are at the frontline in addressing the health needs of the community.

Dr. Jean Marie A. Egargo, OIC Director III of the Department of Health (DOH) Regional Office VIII who was keynote speaker, also echoed Governor Ongchuan’s point, reiterating the BHWs’ task in ensuring that no one is left behind, that all in the community are served, including those in the grassroots.

LGU Catarman was also recognized for bringing home the prestigious Kampeon ng Kalusugan Award for championing immunization efforts in the municipality, one among the 5 recipients in the entire country.

As national awardee, Ms. Khristine Boglosa, BHW Coordinator of Catarman, shared the LGU’s best practices in community health delivery. Meanwhile, Ms. Jewel Shashey T. Pelayo, a Life Coach, raised awareness on mental health and support strategies.

With Governor Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members, Municipal BHW Coordinators, heads and representatives of the Department of Health Northern Samar, DepEd, TESDA and other national government agencies in Northern Samar, also graced the event.

Spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), the 2nd Provincial Barangay Health Workers' Summit was held not only to honor the awardees but to celebrate the contribution of frontline health workers in the province.