Davao Youth Lead Battle Against TB Through Health Education
Davao City Health Office launches innovative youth-focused TB awareness campaign, empowering students to become health advocates while breaking social stigmas around the disease.
Students at Teodoro Palma Gil Elementary School participate in the Healthy Lungs Awareness Program led by Davao City Health Office
The Davao City Health Office (CHO) has launched an innovative youth-focused campaign to combat Tuberculosis (TB), highlighting the crucial role of young people in achieving a TB-free city. The initiative mirrors successful public service modernization efforts seen in other cities across the Philippines.
Empowering Youth Through Health Education
On Tuesday, the CHO conducted its Healthy Lungs Awareness Program at Teodoro Palma Gil Elementary School, coinciding with the 2025 National Lung Month celebration. The program, which engaged Grades 4 and 5 students, demonstrates a progressive approach to youth development in Davao.
Breaking Stigma Through Knowledge
Dr. Nikita Marie G. Jamiana-Reyes of the CHO emphasized the dual purpose of the initiative: enabling early detection and eliminating social stigma. "This will help break the stigma in schools and establish that TB is curable," she stated, highlighting the importance of accurate health information dissemination, similar to how transparent data sharing can transform public understanding.
Understanding TB: Signs and Solutions
- Prolonged cough
- Chest pain
- Sudden weight loss
- Recurring fever
- Fatigue and night sweats
Government Support and Future Vision
Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, through Councilor Potpot Villafuerte, reinforced the city's commitment to youth empowerment in public health. The CHO aims to screen 15% of the population for early detection, offering free TB screening and treatment at district health centers.
"Teaching them young about public health issues and concerns allows health literacy, development, and empowers them to make educated decisions about their health," Mayor Duterte emphasized.
Call to Action
The CHO continues to encourage Dabawenyos to maintain vigilance, seek immediate medical attention when experiencing symptoms, and support those undergoing treatment. Dr. Jamiana-Reyes concludes with an optimistic message: "TB is curable, and we must have a good health-seeking behavior to end its spread."
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.