The Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Center for Health Development (CHD) formally recognized the exemplary contributions of regional and local health implementers in advancing Universal Health Care (UHC) during the Gawad Kalusugan 2025, held on December 11, 2025 at the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center.
Carrying the theme “Local Action, Universal Health: Honoring Achievements in Advancing the DOH 8-Point Action Agenda,” the awarding ceremony highlighted the pivotal role of local government units, health facilities, and frontline workers in translating national health priorities into concrete, community-level gains.
Guest of Honor and Undersecretary for Public Health Services Cluster (PHSC) and also serves as the Cluster Lead for Area 1 of the Universal Health Care Health Services Cluster Glenn Mathew G. Baggao lauded local health partners for their dedication and innovation in service delivery.
“Universal Health Care is realized not only through policy, but through consistent and compassionate action at the local level. The awardees of Gawad Kalusugan 2025 exemplify how commitment, collaboration, and innovation can bring quality health services closer to every Ilokano family,” he stated.
The Gawad Kalusugan 2025 underscored the Ilocos Region’s sustained commitment to the implementation of the DOH 8-Point Action Agenda, particularly in strengthening primary care, expanding access to quality health services, protecting families from financial risk, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of better health outcomes.
DOH Ilocos Regional Director Dr. Paula Paz M. Sydiongco emphasized that the achievements recognized during the ceremony are the result of strong partnerships and shared accountability.
“These recognitions affirm that local action is the backbone of Universal Health Care. Our local health implementers are not merely executing programs—they are transforming lives and communities. DOH Ilocos remains steadfast in supporting them as we collectively advance the 8-Point Action Agenda and build a healthier, more resilient region,” Dr. Sydiongco stated.
“The Gawad Kalusugan 2025 served not only as a celebration of accomplishments but also as a call to sustain momentum in health system reforms, service integration, and people-centered care across the region,” she emphasized.
Among the awardees were national government agencies, non-government agencies, hospital and academic institutions, and medical societies. Cash incentives were also given.
Through continued collaboration with local stakeholders, DOH-Ilocos Region reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening health systems and ensuring that quality, accessible, and affordable health services are equitably delivered to all Ilocanos—bringing the vision of Universal Health Care closer to reality.