To emphasize the importance of safe pediatric and newborn care, the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) led the World Patient Safety Day celebration in the region through a quiz bee competition on September 12, 2025.
Ten teams composed of Patient Safety Officers, nurses, and doctors from government and private hospitals across Bicol competed in the event held at La Roca Veranda Suites.
Libmanan District Hospital emerged as the grand champion, followed by Castilla District Hospital, and Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center as first and second runners-up, respectively.
Carrying the theme, “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child” and the slogan, “Patient Safety from the Start!”, the activity underscored the vulnerability of infants and children to risks and harm caused by unsafe care, calling for urgent action to improve safety practices in health facilities.
In her message, Dr. Angela Maria B. Rempillo, chief of the Strategic Management for Health Development Division (SMHDD), emphasized that safeguarding patient safety begins with healthcare workers who uphold the rights and well-being of every patient.
The competition was not only a celebration but also a commitment by participating hospitals to strengthen teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing in pursuit of safer healthcare delivery.
DOH Bicol CHD also urged government agencies, healthcare workers, and partner organizations to intensify efforts in promoting patient safety and improving healthcare systems to prevent harm, especially among newborns and children.
World Patient Safety Day is observed annually to raise global awareness about patient safety and encourage collective action to enhance health care quality. (DOH5/NRB)
Source: DOH Bicol CHD