The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) strengthened its commitment to promoting the health and well-being of older persons through the pilot roll-out and orientation on the Manual for Healthy Ageing on June 9-10, 2026 in Legazpi City.
As one of the selected regions nationwide to pilot the implementation of the Healthy Ageing Manual, the Bicol Region plays a vital role in shaping strategies and approaches that will guide the delivery of comprehensive and responsive health services for older adults. The initiative supports the Department of Health’s goal of fostering healthy and active ageing by empowering healthcare providers and local implementers with evidence-based tools and interventions.
The activity gathered representatives from the Local Government Unit of Legazpi City, City Health Office of Legazpi, the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center, the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center, and the Local Government Unit of Magallanes, Sorsogon.
The orientation and pilot roll-out were facilitated by experts and program coordinators who provided technical guidance on the implementation of the manual. Resource persons included World Health Organization (WHO) Consultant, Ms. April Joy David and Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo, Dr. Gabriele P. Domingo, National Coordinator of the Health and Wellness Program for Senior Citizens under the Disease Prevention and Control Bureau, and Ms. Twinkle Jean P. Lorilla, Regional Program Coordinator. Through their presentations, participants gained valuable insights on healthy ageing principles, age-friendly healthcare systems, and strategies for integrating healthy ageing interventions into local health programs and services.
During the orientation, participants were introduced to the goals of the manual: to serve as a toolkit for LGUs to develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate local Healthy Ageing Program in their communities, and participated in workshops that identify key challenges and solutions relative to the program.
The pilot roll-out serves as an opportunity for stakeholders to provide feedback and recommendations that will help refine the manual prior to its wider implementation.
With the growing population of older adults, DOH Bicol CHD continues to prioritize programs and interventions that promote healthy ageing and address age-related health concerns. The pilot implementation of the Healthy Ageing Manual marks a significant step toward building age-friendly communities and strengthening healthcare systems that are responsive to the needs of senior citizens.
Through these initiatives, the Department reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every older person has the opportunity to age healthily, actively, and with dignity.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD