PHAPCares Enhances Iloilo Adolescent Health Program

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

PHAPCares Foundation, Inc., the social responsibility arm of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), is spearheading efforts to improve adolescent health and well-being in Iloilo province.

On Monday, October 21, the healthcare organization signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the provincial government of Iloilo, the Department of Education in Iloilo, and the local governments of Carles, Mina, and Pototan.

Under the MOA, PHAPCares, in collaboration with partner stakeholders, will implement the “PHAPCares: Healthy Youth, Healthy Future Program” through local primary healthcare facilities, barangay health stations, and public and private schools in the three pilot towns.

The program aims to reach 30,000 adolescents, focusing on awareness of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), sexual health, and mental wellness through community-based lifestyle wellness approaches.

PHAPCares targets to cover 80 percent of the adolescent population in the three pilot areas.

Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. described the project as “very timely and complementary,” noting that it will be integrated into the province’s existing Teen and Youth Development Centers.

Ms. Lotis Ramin, PHAPCares Foundation president and president of AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals (Philippines), emphasized that improving adolescent well-being will yield a “triple dividend” for Ilonggo youth, impacting their health as adults and the health of their future children.

“We look forward to a healthier world that goes beyond treatment — a strong, preventive ecosystem of disease awareness and lifestyle management,” Ramin said.

PHAPCares Executive Director Dr. Maria Rosarita Quijano-Siasoco highlighted their team’s expertise in community health, aiming to establish a framework that stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle for adolescents and their communities.

“We hope this project will create a ripple effect of health and well-being that extends beyond the individual lives of young people, transforming entire families and communities,” she added.

The Department of Health Western Visayas will provide technical assistance and data to ensure effective project implementation and evaluation.

AstraZeneca and PHAPCares volunteers will support the initiative through direct volunteerism, planning and technical support, communications and advocacy, and assistance to program trainers and staff.

PHAPCares Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded by members of PHAP, representing trusted providers of quality and life-saving medicines in the country.