29/11/2025
AGNO HONORS BARANGAY CHAMPIONS IN PURSUIT OF A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY
November 27, 2025 – Health champions from all corners of the municipality once again converged for the second installment of Gawad Ragpaten Salun-at, the 2nd Agno Health Summit, carrying the theme “Strengthening Barangay Action Towards a Healthier Community.” This annual summit recognizes the invaluable contributions of barangays whose exemplary efforts and outstanding performance continue to uplift the health and well-being of Agno residents.
The program opened with a processional march featuring all partner sectors in health. Each barangay delegation was represented by its Punong Barangay, Kagawad on Health, SK Chairperson, Barangay Health Worker (BHW), Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS), Barangay Population Worker, and Barangay Health Promoter, symbolizing a united front for community development.
Hon. Kristine N. Feble, representing Hon. Jefferlyn P. Dela Co**ha, warmly welcomed the participants and underscored that meaningful transformation begins at the barangay level. In her message, she encouraged all attendees to foster collaboration that transcends geographical boundaries.
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Mayor John N. Celeste, Mrs. Cirila G. Celeste delivered his message of congratulations and gratitude. He commended the Municipal Health Office, led by the hardworking Municipal Health Officer Dr. Joseph B. Lopez, for achieving milestones that bring pride not only to Agno but to the entire province of Pangasinan.
“Bilang ama ng bayan, gusto kong iparating sa inyo ang taos-pusong pasasalamat sa napakagandang kontribusyon ng barangay katuwang ang lokal na pamahalaan. Mahalaga ang matibay na ugnayan sa pagitan ng munisipyo at barangay. Magkaisa nating itaguyod ang kalusugan, kaayusan, at kaginhawaan ng ating mamamayan.”
Hon. Vice Mayor Jonathan G. Doromal echoed this call, emphasizing that real and lasting change begins within the very heart of the community—the barangay.
“Bilang inyong pangalawang ama, kasama po ninyo ang Sangguniang Bayan sa pagsusulong ng mga polisiya at programang tutugon sa pangangailangan ng bawat barangay. Ang kalusugan ay hindi lamang responsibilidad ng health sector kundi ng buong komunidad. Kapag malusog ang barangay, malusog ang buong bayan.”
Strengthening Local Initiatives in Disease Prevention
Mr. Harold Paulo T. Mejia, Development Management Officer IV, provided practical insights on the Non-Communicable Diseases Control Program. He emphasized the need for sustained grassroots actions to combat lifestyle-related diseases and encouraged the revitalization of Hypertension and Diabetes Clubs. He also urged barangays to allocate resources for medicines, support early detection through the PhilPEN protocol, and intensify physical activity programs.
Dr. Ron Allen Teñoso, Medical Officer III of the Provincial Health Office, represented Dr. Maria Vivian A. Villar-Espino, Provincial Health Officer II. He extended the PHO’s gratitude to the Municipal Health Office and barangays for contributing to the province’s health targets through innovative strategies such as the Health Summit. The program was also graced by Hon. Lorna N. Nivera, Hon. Jose N. Pajeta, Jr., Liga ng mga Barangay President together with the Barangay Captains and team, Mr. Marc Jethro R. Lim, District Nurse Supervisor of WPDH and Mrs. Elvira N. Burgonio, Senior Administrative Assistant III.
Honoring Dedication and Excellence
Three of Agno’s longest-serving BHWs—Ma’am Lita C. Alfredo (Brgy. Macaboboni), Ma’am Fortunata G. Nagal (Brgy. Cayungnan), and Ma’am Virginia Q. Laulita (Brgy. Boboy)—were recognized for more than 40 years of devoted service.
Barangay Macaboboni emerged as the Overall Champion of the 2nd Health Summit and was hailed as the Most Improved Barangay in Health Service Delivery, followed by Barangay Boboy (1st Runner-Up) and Poblacion West (2nd Runner-Up).
More than a recognition ceremony, the summit aims to inspire all barangay health teams to champion health and make it a top priority. By empowering communities and strengthening local health systems, Agno continues to move closer to its vision of becoming home to the healthiest Pangasinenses, exemplifying the true essence of Ragpaten Salun-at—the attainment of health.
