SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union - The La Union Provincial Health Office’s (PHO) Barangay Health Workers (BHW) Summit held at Bauang town on October 18 is expected to boost the implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) in the entire province, particularly the vulnerable sectors in the grassroots with limited access to health services.

The one-day summit included an orientation of the UHC to barangay health workers from the 20 local government units of La Union which was aimed to improve the knowledge and boost the skills of the aforementioned, further ensuring that quality healthcare would reach Filipinos in need of assistance.

A lecture on Republic Act No. 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act was discussed for attending BHWs to know their roles in their respective fields and to enable people needing health assistance to be able to get one when they need it, without getting impoverished.

La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica David-Ortega meanwhile commended the efforts of BHWs throughout the province in her speech, noting their contributions that enable health care to reach the grassroots of the province.

“This is dedicated to each one of you whose dedication and unwavering commitment have been a beacon of hope for our communities and our kaprobinsyaan,” Governor Ortega-David said.

An awarding for ten outstanding BHWs in the province was also done during the summit as instituted by Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Ordinance No. 179-2019, underscoring their commitment towards advocating for health and wellness to the people in their areas of responsibility.

The award also aims to recognize BHWs in the province for being a partner in delivering efficient and effective primary health care services, from community profiling to health advocacy, in their communities.

A lecture on women empowerment was also included in the summit, especially since majority of BHWs in the province are women and in recognition of their crucial role in society and in advocating and implementing healthcare for all. (JCR/AMB/MJTAB/CCMT, PIA La Union)