• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in Negros Island Region will be given priority in the deployment of 438 health professionals, according to the Department of Health – Negros Island Region.
Four hundred thirty eight newly deployed health professionals were formally inducted during the 1st Human Resources for Health (HRH) oathtaking ceremony under the National Health Workforce Support System (NHWSS) of the DOH Negros Island Region Center for Health Development (DOH NIR CHD) recently at SMX Convention Center in Bacolod Ciuty. A total of 245 are nurses, 153 are midwives, medical technologists – 20, nutritionists-dietitians – 8, pharmacists – 6, physical therapists – 3 and dentists – 3.
Also prioritized for deployment of health professionals are low-income local government units and Indigenous People (IP) communities.
Dr. Mylene Infante, DOH-NIR Health Facility Cluster head, congratulated the inductees and underscored the significance of their role in strengthening primary health care services.
Infante emphasized that through strategic deployment under the NHWSS, the region moves closer to achieving a stronger, more equitable, and responsive health system for every Negrense and Siquijodnon.
DOH-NIR officer-in-charge Assistant Regional Director Adrian Hort Ramos, who delivered the inspirational message of Undersecretary Mary Ann Palermo-Maestral, reminded the new health workers that they are stepping into critical frontline roles in priority and underserved areas.
“You are stepping into the frontlines in the most priority areas — geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities, low-income municipalities, and indigenous populations. Your presence in these areas represents the Department of Health’s promise that no Filipino shall be left behind,” the message read.
The ceremony proceeded with the formal oath-taking, followed by the ceremonial signing of appointments, symbolically represented by team leaders from the respective local government units (LGUs) where the personnel will be assigned.
To further orient the newly inducted health workers, Marc Elic Pialago of the Health Systems Integration Cluster delivered a refresher discussion on the Universal Health Care Act and its key pillars, highlighting the role of HRH in ensuring integrated and people-centered health services.
This was followed by a background presentation on the PuroKalusugan initiatives and the critical functions of NHWSS personnel in advancing community-based health programs, delivered by Jennifer Remollo, Head of the Health Systems Integration Cluster.
Assistant Regional Director Ramos also provided a comprehensive discussion on the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees under Republic Act No. 6713. He reminded the newly inducted government employees of their duty to uphold integrity, accountability, professionalism, and commitment to public service.*
