The award was formally received by Ms. Ana Fe Perez, Tuberculosis (TB) Prevention and Control Program Manager, in acknowledgment of the region’s intensified efforts to strengthen tuberculosis detection and ensure that no case goes unnoticed.
This recognition underscores the regional office’s data-driven and community-centered approach to TB control—prioritizing early detection, strategic outreach in high-risk communities, and strengthened collaboration with local government units and health partners across Region I.
“Active case finding is a critical pillar in ending TB. This award affirms the hard work of our healthcare workers, partners, and communities who remain vigilant in identifying and treating TB cases promptly,” Ms. Perez said. “Every detected case means a life potentially saved and a community protected.”
Tuberculosis continues to pose a significant public health burden regionwide, requiring sustained and aggressive interventions. In response, the DOH Ilocos has scaled up mobile chest X-ray screenings, intensified contact tracing, expanded molecular diagnostic services, and deployed outreach teams in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). These efforts are aligned with the national TB elimination roadmap and underscore the region’s proactive, prevention-focused strategy.
Regional Director Dr. Paula Paz M. Sydiongco was grateful for the award and added that it reflects not only programmatic performance metrics but also the depth of institutional commitment across the health sector.
“This recognition demonstrates that when we combine strong surveillance systems, community engagement, and accountable governance, we achieve measurable public health gains,” Sydiongco emphasized.
“Our TB active case finding initiatives are about equity—bringing life-saving diagnostics and treatment closer to the people, especially the most vulnerable. We will continue to innovate and intensify our strategies until TB is no longer a threat to Ilocano families.”
The distinction from RCG Foundation Inc. highlights DOH Ilocos Region’s operational excellence, robust field implementation, and unwavering commitment to closing detection gaps.
As the Center advances its tuberculosis prevention and control agenda, DOH Ilocos remains steadfast in delivering equitable, accessible, and quality health services—ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against TB.